Since 1962, Spider-Man has been the figurehead of Marvel Comics. It can even be argued that Spidey the most popular comic book hero of all time. Many newer fans over the decades have found their starting-off point later in Peter Parker's timeline, but there's something to be said with going back all the way to the start.
With six decades of action, drama, humor, and even a bit of horror, there's something for everyone when reading through the Web-Head's entire history. Taking a journey back through time to the early 60s and getting to see the evolution of Spider-Man reveals a number of amazing and rewarding moments in comic book history.
10 The Early Years Are Fascinating To Revisit
There's an undeniable charm to the early days of Spider-Man's antics, both due to the character's own struggles with his new powers and responsibilities, but also thanks to the era-specific approach from creators Stan Lee and Steve Ditko.
The somewhat light-hearted and pulpy origin era of Spider-Man is a blast to check out nowadays, and it contrasts well with some darker stories of recent years. Plus, getting to see the debuts of so many classic villains and supporting characters is great fun.
9 He Has Some Of The Greatest Villains Ever
Spider-Man's rogue's gallery contains some of the most iconic bad guys in comic history, from mad scientists to powerful crime lords, and even murderous aliens. Like the hero, these complex baddies have had decades' worth of character development to read through.
Through the years, the Web-Slinger's foes have changed with the times, but the heavy-hitters have always found a way to return time and time again. At the end of the day, a hero is only as good as their villain... or villains, in this case, and these villains are as good as they get.
8 Spidey Has Had Some Awesome Costume Changes
It's fun to see the heroes switch up their looks now and then. Pretty much every major headliner has had at least a few iconic suit changes, and Spider-Man is no different. Starting with the classic red and blue, to the black symbiote suit in the 80s, and the sleek Iron Spider design during Civil War, Parker certainly has a fashion sense.
Of course, it helps when Spidey has had his fair share of clones swinging around whom all put their own stamp on the design, as well as newer characters such as Miles Morales introducing yet another spin on things. Each time a new look comes into the comics, there's usually an important reason behind it to keep readers engaged.
7 Many Of The Industry's Best Writers Have Worked On The Character
From Stan Lee kicking things off, to Gerry Conway further down the road, and to modern-day greats like Dan Slott and Brian Michael Bendis, there's no shortage of incredibly talented writers behind Spider-Man's amazing adventures.
Such a high caliber of writing is common throughout the Web-Slinger's history. Whether fans are looking for exciting action, heartfelt drama, over-the-top insanity, or just something plain fun, Spider-Man's adventures have something for everyone. As the classic saying goes, "Face it, Tiger... you just hit the jackpot!"
6 Let's Not Forget About The Artists
Steve Ditko, John Romita Sr., Todd McFarlane, Mark Bagley, the list goes on and on. Artists have long been considered the rock stars of the comic book world, and pretty much everyone who's anyone has had a try at sketching those infamous webs.
It's a huge achievement that, despite having such a recognizable look since his origin, so many artists have managed to create their own unique version of Spider-Man over the decades. Artist Todd McFarlane even managed to redefine the look of Spidey's main method of transport with his "spaghetti webbing" approach.
5 Friends Became Foes And Foes Became Friends
Spider-Man has had a great supporting cast for 60 years, and it's only natural that some of them have undergone some pretty significant changes over time. Seeing this progression as readers journey through the various decades can really hammer home how far some of these characters have come.
Harry Osborn, once Peter's best friend, became his mortal enemy (then friends again, and enemies again... kind of). Flash Thompson, a former high school bully became not only a trusted friend but a legitimate hero in his own right. Then there's Boomerang, an obscure villain who surprisingly enough, became Peter's roommate and ally.
4 Peter Is Flawed, And That Makes His Arc Very Relatable
The very mantra of "With great power comes great responsibility" was born of Peter Parker's first true mistake; one that led to the tragic death of his Uncle Ben. Despite that lesson, it wouldn't be the last time he would make an error of judgment that would cost him and others dearly.
Such mistakes help to humanize Peter and have helped endear him to loving fans for so long. Like watching a long-running TV series, the experience of joining the determined hero and learning along with him as he grows can be a highly rewarding journey.
3 Fans Will Spot All Sorts Of Movie Inspirations
2017s Spider-Man: Homecoming featured a stand-out scene where Tom Holland's iteration of the young hero was trapped under tons of building debris. Running out of time to save himself and others, he managed to reach deep down and find the strength to lift the heavy rubble and get free.
This scene, as well as many other small and larger moments across the various live-action Spider-Man movies, took its inspiration from the comics. If fans decide to revisit the classic stories after viewing Spidey's big-screen exploits, they may get a real kick out of seeing where these moments actually came from.
2 Unlike Most Comic Characters, He's Actually Grown Older
Even in the Marvel Universe, the vast majority of characters don't really age much (if at all), so even if they've had decades worth of real-world adventures, nary a gray hair will appear on their head over time. Spider-Man, on the other hand, has matured from a shy teenager into a (fairly) confident adult since his inception.
Over his career, Peter has worked as a photographer for the Daily Bugle, he's been a teacher, and even the head of a multimillion-dollar tech company. Peter's had his share of relationships with Betty Brant, Gwen Stacy, and Mary Jane. Despite all the changes, he's always kept the same core values.
1 Need A Change? There's Always The Multiverse
If a fan is ever reading through the main timeline and feel the need for a change of pace, there's no shortage of amazing (pun intended) alternate variations of Spider-Man out there. Most of these unique heroes have even met and fought alongside the main man himself on several occasions.
Spider-Man 2099, Spider-Ham, Ghost-Spider, Miles Morales, and more all offer something new and exciting to complement the original. With these many options at the reader's disposal, there's really no way to get sick of the friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, whether in this universe or beyond!