The tangled web of vengeance, love, and loss woven by Spider-Man comics
and films is explored in this collection of insightful essays by
acclaimed writers of comics and science fiction and edited by Spider-Man comic writer Gerry Conway.

A variety of
topics—from the superhero’s sarcasm to the science behind radioactive
spiders—are discussed in essays on “Turning Rage into Responsibility: A
Psychology of Loss,” “Love Is Selfish: Can a Hero Afford Personal
Attachments?,” and “Self Identity and Costume Design.” The popular
rival Green Goblin, the bumbling-yet-influential media, and the part
New York City itself plays in stories are skillfully explored, as well
as the overall philosophy of mild-mannered Peter Parker and Spidey’s
relationship with the rest of the characters in the Marvel universe.