The Amazing Spider-Man # 210
(FINE+)
1st Appearance of Madame Web (Cassandra Webb)
"The Amazing Spider-Man #210," released in November 1980, is notable for introducing a significant character in the Spider-Man universe, Madame Web. Written by Denny O'Neil with artwork by John Romita Jr. and inking by Joe Sinnott, this issue expands the mystical and supernatural elements of the Spider-Man series by introducing a character with psychic and clairvoyant abilities.
The story, titled "And Then -- The Spider!", revolves around the first appearance of Madame Web, a blind psychic with the ability to see the future. Madame Web becomes an intriguing and mysterious figure in Spider-Man's world, offering him cryptic guidance and prophecies about upcoming challenges. In this issue, Madame Web contacts Peter Parker, alerting him to a threat that she foresees but cannot fully clarify, thus drawing him into a new and complex mystery.
As Spider-Man investigates the vague forewarnings of Madame Web, he encounters a group of kidnappers who have abducted an actress. The plot explores not only the action and crime-fighting typical of Spider-Man's adventures but also delves into the difficulties of dealing with a psychic whose visions are compelling yet frustratingly indirect.
John Romita Jr.'s artwork in this issue effectively captures the suspense and mystique of introducing Madame Web, using expressive facial features and dynamic action sequences to enhance the story's emotional and physical stakes. His illustration style complements the narrative's blend of superhero action and enigmatic mysticism.
"Amazing Spider-Man #210" is significant for setting the stage for Madame Web's future interactions with Spider-Man, where her foresight proves both a blessing and a burden to him. Her character adds a unique dimension to the Spider-Man series, mixing the supernatural with the superheroic in ways that challenge Spider-Man's usual problem-solving approaches. This issue is a memorable addition to the series, appreciated by fans for its introduction of a lasting and impactful character in the Spider-Man lore.
