Spider-man Database

Amazing Spider-man Vol. 1 Issue 41

Synopsis:

Submitted by: J. Jonah Reason on Apr 24, 2007

Last edited on: Apr 25, 2007

Amazing Spider-Man 41 introduces the Rhino, making him John Romita's first significant contribution (design-wise) to the world-class pantheon of Spidey-villains. As the issue commences Aunt May is asked by Anna May Watson (the aunt of the soon-to-be introduced Mary Jane Watson) to move in as roommates. Aunt May declines, worrying that no one would be around to look after Peter. The scene switches to young Parker, who is in the process of buying himself a motorcycle!

In order to satisfy the salesman, Peter places a call to J. Jonah Jameson whom he hopes will recommend him for a bank loan. Jameson does so, under his own agenda (of course). John Jameson is present, speaking with his father at the time of the call. The story of Spider-Man rescuing J. Jonah's son (as seen in Amazing Spider-Man #1) is recounted, but does nothing to appease JJJ's "distaste" for Spidey. John then tells his father about his recent space flight, during which he was exposed to "Space Spores". J. Jonah is incredulous, but is quickly put to ease as John describes the medical treatments and testing he has undergone since his return to earth.

The scene switches again to the American southwest, where we get our first glimpse of The Rhino in action as he bulldozes past a group of US border guards, smashing their concrete gatehouse in the process.

We then return to New York, where Peter encounters a familiar face he hasn't seen in some time, that of the lovely Betty Brant. The two decide to go for a coffee, but the conversation is strained. Peter is glad when Ned Leeds joins them and has an easier time talking to Betty. Peter takes his leave, only to catch a glimpse of The Rhino on a nearby TV set.... apparently now heading for New York (where else?). Peter makes his way home and has a short visit with Aunt May. Both of them are dreaming of living elsewhere (Peter on his own, and Aunt May with Anna Watson), but neither is able to speak of it for fear of upsetting the other.

Peter attempts to work on a term paper but keeps getting interrupted, first by thoughts of his personal life, then by an urgent radio announcement: The Rhino is on the rampage in New York! Peter dons his Spider-garb and swings into the night, only to discover that The Rhino has broken into John Jameson's hotel suite and has kidnapped the astronaut! Peter sees the Rhino leaving the scene, encumbered by the limp body of John Jameson. Spidey interdicts, and the battle is joined. Peter is able to defeat the Rhino by bouncing his head off the pavement with vigor - and the police arrive just in time to effect the arrest. Unluckily, they are not able to remove the Rhino suit, and some discussion takes place over whether or not the jail will be able to hold him once he wakes up.

JJJ rants  to the police about arresting Spider-Man, but John tries to convince his father that Spider-Man has actually saved him once again. J. Jonah won't buy it though, and spins everything into more hatred toward the Webslinger. Peter leaves the scene and heads home to Aunt May, complete with his new motorcycle. Aunt May corners Petey into joining her for dinner at the Watsons', citing Mary Jane's ongoing desire to meet our hero. Peter is nonplussed, as he had a nice look at Gwen Stacy on the way home, and realizes (after how many issues???) that she's quite attractive. Good news for Peter - it looks as if Gwen might like him too! Finally, things are starting to go Spidey's way.