The many, many faces of Mystique, Marvel’s mutant shapeshifter

Throughout the years, Mystique has played the role of both hero and villain, but always on her own terms. Photo: Marvel Comics

If you thought Cable’s origin was confusing, Mystique's past is 10 times shadier... and with a few layers of grey. Then again, she is a shapeshifter, so it stands to reason that her history and character would shift accordingly.

Mystique is the ultimate protagonist-cum-antagonist hybrid. Her shapeshifting abilities boosts her versatility as a character, and she has been heavily involved in shaping the course of mutant history.