This is when you really get to see what Brian Michael Bendis can bring to the story. The first arc was all about the origin story. It established who Peter Parker was and how he became Spider-Man. This arc is more about broadening the character, making him a little more real. We see Peter Parker trying to come to grips with the loss of his uncle and Spider-Man trying to come to grips with the fact that despite being a superhero, he is still vulnerable.
What really makes this arc great is the interaction between Mary Jane and Peter. It's very realistic in terms of two teens relating to each other and how they deal with the beginnings of a relationship. I think the proof of the power of Bendis' writing comes in the last chapter of the trade which has no fighting or costumes or anything. It's just a great scene between Mary Jane and Peter.
Leave a comment