Spider-Man is one of the premiere characters of Marvel comics. Although the character has been written by many writers over the years, Spider-Man has been consistently recognizable whether in media or through cosplays. That being said, since his appearance in 1962, many elements of the character has changed. Both in minor and in drastic ways which have either been favourable or controversial to fans.
With that being said, here are the ways the character has changed over the years and also how Spider-Man has stood up to the test of time.
10 Changed: He Is Longer A Teenager
When Spider-Man was first created, he started off his career when he was a high-schooler. The idea behind this was the fact that the character was supposed to be as relatable as the people who are reading his books.
Although decades afterwards, it is clear that Marvel has since changed that in the comics. Allowing the character to fully age and blossom into a strong and capable superhero. Although many traits from his earlier days still exist today like his bad luck. All of these experiences did make him quotable though.
9 Same: He Is Still Portrayed As A Deeply Relatable Character
No matter what age Spider-Man is, one of the most important attributes for the character is his relatability. Although many Marvel characters also go through these issues, it is Spider-Man that seems to define these attributes the most.
Despite his time as a superhero, he always has difficulty trying to manage both his jobs and personal relationships. All of this in order to make the character more relatable to its readers.
8 Changed: His Costume Has Received Multiple Makeovers
Although the Spider-Man suit has generally always been the same. It has still changed even if it is just the little things. Elements such as the blacks rather than blues during the first appearance of Spider-Man really showcases this fact.
Elements such as the armpit webbing have also been removed although it does occasionally come back. But perhaps the biggest notable change is the eyes and how they got bigger over the years.
7 Same: His Powers Have Gone Through Minimal Changes
Spider-Man's abilities is one of the many elements of the character that has remained consistent to this day. Everything that is proportional to the spider has been applied to Peter Parker. All of these include wall-clinging and the spider-sense.
However, one of the most interesting elements is the web-shooters and how they are designed rather than being biological. An interesting dynamic that he has kept for a while. Even when fully evolved, it always reverts back to the standard.
6 Changed: He Has Become A Mentor To Miles
One of the biggest changes that have shaken the Spider-Man universe forever is the introduction of Miles Morales. As the successor of the Ultimate Spider-Man, he has since become more or less a protege to Peter Parker.
As a result, what initially became a solo hero with his own problems, now had to share his experience with Miles Morales. A true hero that fits the title. Although it is one of the newer developments, it is by far one of the most interesting.
5 Same: His Banter Against His Foes Has Improved
One of the traits that define Spider-Man is his quips. It really doesn't matter who he is fighting, he will always make fun of his enemies in order to make them get angry quickly. A lot of these traits emanated from the time the character has been bullied back in High School.
Almost acting like a reflex against other characters. However, a lot of this is also to hide the fact that he is analytically trying to take someone down. It also helped him to hide any insecurities he had under the mask.
4 Changed: His Fighting Style Has Grown More Effective
When it comes to superheroes, details regarding a particular fighting style isn't the most important thing. However, it does illustrate and highlight how unique a character might be. Whether it is made-up or otherwise stated.
That being said, Spider-Man himself utilizes a unique fighting style that compliments his abilities. However, over the past few years, it has since evolved where he utilizes a new fighting style that perfects his self-taught one. The way of the spider.
3 Same: Mary Jane Is Always In His Heart
It isn't too surprising that over the decades that Spider-Man has existed as a character, he has had multiple relationships. Each bringing in something new to the table. However, perhaps the closest two people that Spider-Man has ever cared about is his family and Mary Jane Watson.
Despite the pressure of superhero life, the two seem to always have a thing for one another. Whether in media or in the comics.
2 Changed: His Marriage Ended To Save Aunt May
This is by far the most controversial choice that was ever made in Spider-Man's entire career. During the majority of Marvel comics, Peter Parker was happily married to the love of his life Mary Jane. However, due to certain events, it had since been retconned.
The reason behind this was Peter Parker's controversial decision to get a supernatural divorce in order for his Aunt May to live. The reasoning behind this was to bring back a status quo of an unmarried Peter Parker, however, it is one that has divided fans to this very day.
1 Same: With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility
The famous quote that is also the backbone of Spider-Man as a character, it is by far his most defining trait as a character. No matter which Spider-Man it is or whoever is under the mask. They are obligated to follow the same principles.
Despite the character going through so many writers and artists over the years, this motto has always been a thing that helped shape him overall. To the point that he still gives out this motto to other heroes and newcomers. Whether by outright saying it or showing it through his actions.