The Amazing Spider-Man #238 (published in March 1983 by Marvel Comics) is written by Roger Stern with art by John Romita Jr. This issue is significant for introducing the villain Hobgoblin, a mysterious new foe who would become one of Spider-Man’s most dangerous adversaries.
Plot Summary
The story begins with Peter Parker, juggling his responsibilities as Spider-Man and his personal life, including his work as a photographer for the Daily Bugle. Meanwhile, a new criminal figure emerges in New York City: the Hobgoblin, who takes on the mantle of a goblin-themed villain similar to the infamous Green Goblin.
The Hobgoblin’s rise begins when he discovers one of the Green Goblin’s secret hideouts, left behind by Norman Osborn. This hideout contains advanced weaponry, gadgets, and journals documenting Osborn’s experiments and designs. Using this arsenal, the Hobgoblin upgrades himself into a formidable new villain.
Spider-Man encounters the Hobgoblin for the first time during one of the Hobgoblin’s robberies, leading to an intense battle. The Hobgoblin demonstrates a dangerous level of intelligence and cunning, using the stolen technology to challenge Spider-Man in ways he hasn’t faced before. The fight ends inconclusively, leaving Spider-Man suspicious of the Hobgoblin’s true identity and intentions.
The issue sets the stage for a long-running mystery, as the Hobgoblin’s identity is kept secret, adding an air of suspense and intrigue to the storyline.
Key Themes
- Legacy and Reinvention: The Hobgoblin builds on the legacy of the Green Goblin, creating a new threat with a fresh identity and motivation.
- Mystery and Suspense: The Hobgoblin’s true identity becomes a central plot point, keeping readers engaged as Spider-Man investigates.
- Strength and Strategy: The Hobgoblin’s combination of advanced technology and calculated tactics marks him as a different type of villain for Spider-Man to face.
Significance
- First Appearance of Hobgoblin: This issue introduces one of Spider-Man’s most enduring villains, whose identity and motivations would drive many future storylines.
- New Era for Spider-Man: The introduction of the Hobgoblin adds a layer of mystery and complexity to the Spider-Man mythos, expanding the rogues’ gallery with a villain who combines the Goblin legacy with his own unique twist.
- Creative Team Excellence: Roger Stern’s writing and John Romita Jr.’s dynamic art create a memorable debut for the Hobgoblin, blending action with intrigue.
The Amazing Spider-Man #238 is a landmark issue that sets the stage for one of Spider-Man’s greatest rivalries. With its introduction of the Hobgoblin and its compelling blend of action and mystery, it remains a classic in Spider-Man’s history.