Power VS Responsibility Feb. 2014 | Page 4

Spider-Man

Spider-Man, one of the most popular comic book characters of all time, also has a relationship with power and responsibility. Peter Parker becomes Spider-Man after being bit by a radioactive spider. Before he becomes a crime-fighter, he actually tries to use his power to make money. At this point in his life, he has a lot of power, but very little responsibility. This is seen when he doesn't stop a criminal from running off with a bunch of money. He was angry at the people who he stole the money from, so he did not feel that it was his responsibility to stop him. However, he soon realizes that he should have stopped the man because he ends up killing his Uncle Ben.

This is the same uncle who said the famous line to Peter, "with great power comes great responsibility." Up until now, Peter has disregarded this, and it has only gotten him in trouble. He had a lot of power, but his lack of responsibility caused his uncle to die. Peter realizes this and swears to use his powers to fight crime. Now, Peter has a lot of power and a lot of responsibility, making his life balanced and not as hurtful. Due to his improved life after following his uncle's policy, the more power you have means you need to have more responsibility.