With the upcoming Madame Web movie on the way, Marvel Comics had the foresight to release Marvel-Verse: Spider-Man & Madame Web. This beginner’s guide to Madame Web offers stories that span her decades-long interactions with Spidey, along with one of Spider-Man’s most iconic two-part stories. Her true origin isn’t part of this collection, but it’s cool to get a sense of Marvel’s approach to a one-off character that later helped form the Spider-Verse.
This collection features Amazing Spider-Man (1963) #210 and #229-230, and #678-679. It actually features a few firsts, including the first appearance of Madame Web and the first drawn comic by John Romita Jr. Much like previous Marvel-Verse collections (see Kang, Spider-Gwen, Amazing Spider-Man, Ms. Marvel, Jane Foster Thor, America, Moon Knight, Moon Girl, Morbius, Thor, Spider-Man, Hawkeye, Doctor Strange, Shang-Chi, Captain Marvel, Deadpool & Wolverine, Iron Man, Venom, Thanos, Guardians of the Galaxy, Rocket and Groot, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Black Panther) this is a gateway to the Madame Web character for folks who have seen the upcoming movie.
Kicking things off is a story written by Denny O’Neil with art by John Romita Jr. The iconic quippy Spider-Man is ever present with sharply drawn art by Romita. This is one of the most vital eras for the hero, and it shows. Not only because we see him courting girls but also because he is trying to manage a day job while staying chipper along the way. Madame Web is a strange sci-fi means to help Spider-Man save a kidnapped woman, but her inclusion is quite fascinating. It’s unclear if O’Neil had bigger plans for the character, but she comes off as a one-off weirdo who is tantalizing but also a bit thinly written. It creates a weird vibe that suits her ongoing nature.
Credit: Marvel
Next up is a two-part story that’s quite famous as Spider-Man faces off against Juggernaut. Juggs is teaming up with Black Tom, and they are attempting to kidnap Madame Web. Due to her powers, she can ask Spider-Man to help her, but Juggernaut is way harder to beat one-on-one than Spider-Man is used to. John Romita Jr. also draws this story, and it’s filled with fantastic action and tons of Spider-Man tropes. That includes Spider-Man being buried alive, using his brains to defeat the enemy, and plenty of thrilling, agility-heavy moments. All told, Madame Web isn’t in this story much, which makes for a funny inclusion in the collection.
Closing out this trade paperback is a two-part story by Dan Slott and Humberto Ramos. Peter works at Horizon Labs, and they have plenty of amazing toys, including a door that reveals New York City will someday become rubble. With the aid of the new Madame Web Julia Carpenter, Spider-Man has to go about his day without telling anyone doomsday is looming. While he stops purse snatchers, his buddy Grady checks in on the door to see if doomsday is still coming. It’s an effective way to keep the stakes high while showcasing how everyone Spider-Man saves matters. Even the smallest crime could lead to the doomsday taking place. It’s an excellent, high-paced adventure.
Marvel-Verse: Spider-Man & Madame Web is a decent way to start your Madame Web reading order. You get her first appearance, a more modern take on the character, and one of Spider-Man’s greatest matchups ever. You won’t necessarily be an expert on Madame Web, but it’s a start.
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