Spider-Man's Emotional Battle: The Joker's Trauma on Mary Jane
Imagine a scenario where the beloved Mary Jane is left forever crippled by the Joker. How would Spider-Man react to this unimaginable tragedy?
Shock and Grief
Upon first receiving the news, Spider-Man, whose real name is Peter Parker, would be consumed by a wave of shock and grief. The Joker is known for his chaotic and unpredictable nature, and the brutality of such a traumatic event would hit him hard. This initial emotional shock would be a significant test of his resolve, as he grapples with the harsh reality of Mary Jane's new circumstances.
Anger and Vengeance
While Peter would be in shock, the Joker's actions might also push him toward a desire for vengeance. His moral compass, though strong, may feel violated, leading to an overwhelming urge to confront the Joker. This anger, intense and uncontrolled, would simmer just beneath the surface, threatening to boil over at any moment, especially when memories of Mary Jane's suffering come to the forefront.
Guilt and Self-Blame
Peter often struggles with guilt, feeling more responsible for the safety of those he loves than it is. In this case, he might blame himself for not being able to protect Mary Jane, leading to a deep sense of personal failure. This could consume him to the point where he questions his own worth and abilities as both a superhero and a person. The burden of guilt could greatly impact his emotional and mental state, causing significant internal turmoil.
Determination to Help
Despite his emotional turmoil, Peter would channel his feelings into a determination to help Mary Jane. He would likely focus on supporting her through the recovery process, advocating for her needs, and ensuring she has the best care possible. This would involve seeking out medical professionals and other resources to ensure that Mary Jane receives the best treatment available.
Conflict with His Role as Spider-Man
Peter might also face internal conflict between his responsibilities as Spider-Man and his personal life. He would need to balance his desire for revenge with his commitment to being a hero and protecting others. This conflict would be a significant character development moment, highlighting the clash between his need for justice and his desire to be the person he aspires to be.
Team Support
To help him cope with this overwhelming situation, Peter might reach out to his allies such as the Absolute Avengers or other superheroes seeking assistance. He would need all the support he could get, both emotionally and practically, to help him through such a trying time.
A Scenario in Deeper Detail
Suppose this scenario unfolds with an exacting detail. Peter as Spider-Man would immediately rush Mary Jane to the nearest hospital. While waiting, he would change out of his costume and, still in costume, sit by her side, waiting for news from the doctors and surgeons. His anger would be simmering, barely contained, as the weight of the situation presses down on him.
Just as hope begins to emerge—the doctors report that Mary Jane can feel her legs, but she will never walk again—the Joker's laughter echoes through the halls. This laughter would be a brutal reminder of the Joker's continued impact on Mary Jane's life. In the midst of all of this, Batman arrives, a stark contrast to the chaotic jungle of Batman's Gotham City.
Batman steps in to help, but Peter doesn't take it kindly. He's already on edge, and the Joker's laughter out of the blue is the last straw. Spider-Man, now out of costume and in a state of raw emotion, snarls at Batman, “Outta my way, Bats!”
Batman, in a calm and firm voice, addresses Spider-Man, “You need to calm down and clear your head. The woman you love needs you.” These words are a gentle reminder of the bigger picture, but Spider-Man is too caught up in the moment to hear them. Reliance on reading Peter's body language, as he is still wearing his mask, Batman realizes the urgency of the situation.
Spider-Man punches Batman, grabs his throat, and throws him against the wall. This moment is a culmination of the tumultuous emotions rushing through Spider-Man, and it's clear that Batman's intervention has sparked a fierce internal battle.
Despite the momentary loss of control, Spider-Man knows what he has to do. He launches a Spider-Tracer at the Joker, who is retreating. The tracer leads him to the clown's hideout, and through a fierce and determined fight, Spider-Man confronts the Joker.
Without a trace of the playful acrobatics that are usually a hallmark of his actions, Spider-Man lands a series of punches, leaving the Joker in a state of defeats and agony. The Joker, maniacally laughing, taunts Spider-Man, “HA-HA-HA-HA-HA!! It's hilarious, don't you think?”
Slowly, Batman steps in and tries to reason with him, but it is the final line that reaches Spider-Man: “What would your Uncle Ben say.” These words, reminiscent of Spider-Man's moral compass, are a powerful reminder of his larger mission. Realizing the truth, Spider-Man drops the clown, knowing that in this moment, with great power comes great responsibility.
The Joker, with difficulty, manages to stand up and continues his taunts, but Spider-Man's actions have already been escalated, leaving the Joker in a state of defeat and uncontrolled laughter.
Spider-Man, torn between his desire for justice and his commitment to being a hero, makes a decision that shows the depth of his character. By letting go, he not only saves himself but also ensures that the Joker's actions have come to a close, at least for the time being.