Marvel Studios' Moon Knight introduced a character that not only had an incredibly dark past but one so traumatizing it caused him to develop Dissociative Identity Disorder. While Marc Spector (Oscar Issac) was his core alter, he had also developed Steven Grant, his host alter, and audiences later learn of the violent Jake Lockley, his protector. Because of his various alters, Marc has been shown entering a fugue state where, when he finally gained control, he often found himself in scenarios and locations he had no recollection of. His fugue states eventually got him discharged from the military, but could there be more to the story?
Both Marc and Steven would often find themselves in situations that seemed to have no way out throughout the series. They'd enter a fugue state and awaken to multiple unconscious and dead bodies around them in these moments. The most obvious occurrence came in the show's finale when Marc, nearly killed by Arthur Harrow (Ethan Hawke), disassociated and returned to find Harrow beaten and his disciples killed. Not only did this scare Marc, but it also unnerved his wife, Layla (May Calamawy). It's later revealed that the alter behind these violent episodes was none other than Jake Lockley.
In the comics, Jake was a cab driver who Marc used to gain information about crimes from those that lived on the street. However, he later evolved to be a more violent alter that existed to protect Marc from any danger, a trait that was translated into the series. But in the instances where Jake took control, the answer to why Marc got discharged may also be hidden within his actions.
While a soldier with DID would be dangerous to himself and others in his platoon, at least two possible reasons may transcend that logic. For starters, Marc and Steven often shared a close bond, even in childhood. When Marc wanted to retreat within himself, Steven was the one who took over. Steven spent the most time in control as the host alter and inadvertently protected Marc from all danger. As a result, when he wasn't in combat, Steven may have taken over, much to the confusion of his fellow soldiers. Had others who didn't know him taken his accent and mannerisms the wrong way, it would have placed Marc in danger. As a result, Jake would have taken over and gravely wounded these men, leading to a psychiatric evaluation and eventual discharge over his condition.
Another reason for Marc's discharge, and perhaps the deadliest, could have happened while on the battlefield. Whether captured or forced to go on a rescue mission, Marc may have been caught behind enemy lines. While he would have fought to survive, the means by which he killed his enemies may have been so inhumane that he had to be sent back home and judged for his actions. Upon learning of his mental condition, it's possible he was discharged without it being dishonorable as he had no idea what he had done. Nevertheless, it would prove that Jake takes the reins and does considerable damage when Marc's in danger.
Moon Knight showed the many layers that comprise a hero. While some may be valiant, others may be much darker. That said, Marc took things a step further with the condition that even as an adult, he must still learn about and understand. But no matter what, he can rest knowing there will be people protecting him, even when no one is around. But some protectors may be more violent than others and lead to situations more scary than heroic.
All episodes of Moon Knight are streaming now on Disney+.