I can’t remember where I read it, but I have - on probably at least 3 occasions - seen some criticism of Spider-Man’s 1970s exploits. Personally, I find it silly how anyone could condemn every Spidey tale from January 1970 to December 1979. But I know runs can be critiqued. (I should add that any criticism - of anything here - is always well-written and nuanced, I am more referring to the likes of ‘social media’).

Might I, your honour, make a case for Spidey’s 70s exploits being in contention for one of his best runs? Maybe not the best run, but one of (I realise an entire decade doesn’t necessarily feature the same editor, writer and art team).

So, here’s my arguments:

The decade did see the introduction of some iconic villains who, love them or hate them, have stood the test of time, and do have their fans. I can’t honestly state that I break any speed records to rush to a comic store to acquire a back issue featuring Morbius or the Jackal, but there were some pretty solid villains introduced; I’ll always prefer those who were introduced in the 60s, but like with Batman’s 1980s run, I appreciate any series that doesn’t rest on its supervillain laurels - and at least tries to introduce compelling new villains.

I would argue that some of the most significant character development for Peter Parker, and indeed others, occurred in 70s stories. Some of it felt more “organic” than the character development and dynamics in the 60s era.

I like that it tackled social issues without necessarily being too preachy.

John Romita and Ross Andru may well be my favourite Spidey artists.

Storylines that occurred in that era have had ramifications for decades, although people’s mileage may vary. Some may like the clone thing, Gwen Stacy’s death, etc. Some might not. But it’s been influential.

Over many years, I’ve reached the point - thanks to the likes of the “Essential” range - where I’m pretty much up to speed on the 70s Spidey era. And I have to say, I do find the majority of it more readable than some of the mid-to-late 60s stuff. Not necessarily better in any vast way, but definitely more readable, accessible and believable. And I say that with all due respect to Stan Lee and Steve Ditko.

Defining decades can be hard. Years ago, a friend told me that social occurrences and the like in the 60s definitely didn’t end on 31st December, 1969. I get that. I love 80s movies, but 80s-style movies, such as the buddy cop drama, didn’t necessarily all end on 31st December, 1989. Some early-to-mid 90s buddy cop movies definitely had an 80s flavour. So I realise it can be simplistic to reduce a debate to an age, era, decade, etc. However, I look forward to both the pros and cons of 70s Spidey being discussed.