The Amazing Spider-Man #300 (published in May 1988 by Marvel Comics) is a landmark issue written by David Michelinie with art by Todd McFarlane. This comic is notable for the debut of Venom, one of Spider-Man’s most iconic villains.
Plot Summary
The story picks up with Peter Parker and Mary Jane Watson adjusting to life after their recent marriage. Peter has abandoned the black Spider-Man suit due to its association with the alien symbiote, which he had previously rejected after learning it was a sentient being trying to bond with him permanently. He has returned to his classic red-and-blue costume.
However, the symbiote has found a new host in Eddie Brock, a disgraced journalist who blames Spider-Man for his professional and personal failures. The fusion of Eddie and the alien symbiote creates Venom, a powerful and vengeful being with a deep hatred for Spider-Man. Venom retains the symbiote’s ability to mimic Spider-Man’s powers, including wall-crawling and web-slinging, but is immune to Spider-Man’s spider-sense, making him a deadly and unpredictable foe.
Venom stalks Peter and Mary Jane, creating a palpable sense of danger. Mary Jane is particularly traumatized when Venom confronts her directly, showing the dark and twisted nature of the new villain. Spider-Man, realizing the threat posed by Venom, sets out to confront him.
The issue climaxes in a brutal battle between Spider-Man and Venom. Despite Venom’s superior strength and lack of vulnerabilities like Spider-Man’s spider-sense, Peter uses his intelligence and resourcefulness to gain the upper hand. He eventually defeats Venom by exploiting the symbiote’s weakness to sonic waves and fire, temporarily neutralizing the threat.
Significance
- Venom’s Debut: This issue marks the first full appearance of Venom, establishing him as one of Spider-Man’s greatest and most enduring adversaries.
- Todd McFarlane’s Influence: The issue features McFarlane’s distinctive art style, which redefined Spider-Man’s visual presentation and became iconic for the character.
- Key Milestone: Issue #300 is a major milestone for the series and a pivotal moment in Spider-Man’s mythology.
This comic cemented Venom’s role as a fan-favorite villain and laid the groundwork for the character’s evolution into an anti-hero in future storylines.