Spider-Woman #1 - Marvel 1978 - CGC 9.2 - "...A Future Uncertain!"

CGC Cert #4364662008

Spider-Woman #1 (1978): Weaving a Web of Marvelous Origins

Spider-Woman's origin story is a tale of mystery, intrigue, and experimentation. Born Jessica Miriam Drew, she was initially introduced as the daughter of Jonathan and Merriam Drew. The plot takes a dark turn early on when Jessica falls gravely ill due to uranium exposure. In a desperate attempt to save her life, Jessica's father seeks the help of a mysterious figure named Otto Vermis. This decision sets the stage for the transformation that defines Spider-Woman's origin.

Vermis, a high-ranking Hydra agent, employs a serum derived from the blood of several arachnids, including spiders. Injected with the serum while still in the womb, Jessica miraculously survives, but her life takes a drastic turn. Raised in isolation by Hydra, she is manipulated and conditioned to become an agent of the organization. Her upbringing is a web of deception, leaving her with a distorted sense of reality and morality.

However, as Jessica grows older, she begins to question her place in the world. Eventually breaking free from Hydra's control, she discovers the truth about her past and the manipulations she endured. This pivotal moment propels her towards a path of redemption and self-discovery, setting the stage for her emergence as Spider-Woman.

What sets Spider-Woman apart from other Marvel heroes is the fusion of her unique powers. Unlike the iconic Spider-Man, Jessica Drew's abilities are not the result of a radioactive spider bite. Instead, she possesses a distinctive set of powers granted by the combination of the serum and her exposure to spider blood in utero. Her superhuman strength, agility, and ability to cling to walls are reminiscent of traditional spider powers. Additionally, she boasts a venom blast – an electrifying energy projection ability that further adds to her formidable skill set.

As Spider-Woman takes her place in the Marvel Universe, her interactions with other characters provide depth to her character and offer readers a glimpse into the complexities of her past. Crossover events with popular heroes and teams like the Avengers and the X-Men become integral to her development, showcasing her versatility and establishing her as a respected figure in the superhero community.

The 1978 series not only brought Spider-Woman into the spotlight but also contributed to the evolving landscape of female superheroes in comics. At a time when female characters were often relegated to supporting roles, Jessica Drew's Spider-Woman broke the mold by headlining her own series. Marvel Comics recognized the demand for diverse and complex female characters, and Spider-Woman became a trailblazer for future heroines within the Marvel Universe.

In terms of design, Spider-Woman's costume is iconic in its own right. Marie Severin's visually striking and sleek design for the character has stood the test of time. The red and yellow costume, complete with a distinctive spider emblem, became synonymous with Spider-Woman's identity. The visual appeal of the character played a crucial role in establishing her as a force to be reckoned with, both in terms of abilities and style.

Spider-Woman's journey continued beyond her initial series, as she became a key player in various Marvel storylines, including "Secret Wars" and "Civil War." Her affiliations with different superhero teams, as well as her solo adventures, solidified her place as a prominent figure within the Marvel Universe.

Marv Wolfman story
Carmine Infantino & Tony DeZuniga art
Joe Sinnott cover

Product Dimensions: 13" x 9" x 1"