(Cover Date: March, 1965)

There's a lot here that I just didn't remember, but that still doesn't make this a comic that I enjoyed. I'm almost demotivated to write anything about this one. It's just kind of here for our entertainment, while not being that entertaining.

I'll get the juiciest bit out of the way first, because it's all I really want to talk about and by getting it out of the way, I can probably force a few more tidbits out of myself, for the sake of a more full review.

Princess Python. What is this character? She seems like a failed attempt at a Femme Fatale archetype to me. When done right, this can be a fun sort of character. When done wrong however, it kinda starts to look more... sexist, to me. And sexism isn't nearly as fun as it seems, when you get down to it. I don't believe that was truly the intent of either Lee or Ditko, but enough talk about Princess Python being a two timing, no good female, and the lines begin to blur a bit. Just throw in one "femoid" and the whole house of cards comes tumbling down. I don't remember what becomes of any of these Circus of Crime characters, but I hope that if Princess Python is used again, it's in a more competent way that doesn't come across as like... a sexist, dramatic crutch for the story. I just think it's a bit silly that Spider-Man is temporarily defeated because a woman has glommed herself to him. You don't have to hit her, Spidey. You can get her off of you without being overtly violent. And what about your future female villains? How long does this abstinence stay in effect? That's something to look out for.

With that out of the way, I'm at least glad that Ringmaster is treated like the garbage villain he is. He's overtaken by a guy who literally doesn't have a moniker. He's just Clown. And he's a clown, that's all. He sucks too. All these characters are just awful. I can't believe we spent a whole issue on these just... awful characters. The circus isn't a place for crime, unless there's a bird boy involved. It's just... rough.

At least Betty, for once, is on good terms with Peter. It's good she was too, because otherwise Peter might've gentleman'd his way into a life of crime with Princess Python.

Quote of the issue: "Sorry, Ma'am, I Happen to be Tone Deaf!" more