The idea of redemption and that people can become better is at the core of the superhero genre. Many superheroes seek to help people to make up for their past crimes. Peter Parker is one of the most famous examples of this, using his great power to make up for his apathy, which led to his Uncle Ben’s death. Now, one of the most hated characters in the Spider-Man comics has died a hero in a way that strives to redeem them.
Written by Al Ewing, with art by Carlos Gomez, Venom #256 continues the Death Spiral crossover event. The story forges an unlikely alliance between Spider-Man, Venom, and Carnage to stop a costumed serial killer called Torment. Further complicating matters is Mary Jane Watson being the current Venom host and Eddie Brock being bonded to Carnage. To say that none of them are happy about this would be an understatement!
Torment chooses his victims along bloodlines, creating “death spirals” connecting distant families. With the guidance of Carnage (who was operating without Eddie Brock’s knowledge) Torment targeted the Brock, Watson, and Parker families. This sent Torment after Eddie’s son, Dylan, who had been taken in by Mary Jane and her then-boyfriend, Paul Rabin.
Paul is generally loathed by Spider-Man fans. Partly for how he was created to destroy Peter and MJ’s relationship. Partly because Marvel pushed too hard to make Paul likeable. And partly because Paul was responsible for MJ becoming a superhero, thanks to the “Jackpot” technology that gave her random superpowers at the risk of killing her. Many comic readers have been hoping Paul would die for some time. In Venom #256, their wish is granted.
How Spider-Man’s Paul died a heroic death
Paul is initially stabbed while trying to stop Torment from entering his apartment. However, Torment has no interest in finishing him off, being focused on his spirals and Dylan Brock. The teenager was ready to fight back using the Jackpot tech, but Paul convinced him to run for it. Paul further convinced Torment that since he was ready to die to save Dylan, that made them family. This bought Spider-Man, Venom, and Carnage time to catch up with Torment.
While Paul’s death was a noble act, the only person ready to mourn him is Spider-Man. Venom and Mary Jane are more concerned about finding Dylan. Eddie and Carnage are focused on killing Torment. Even Peter can’t think of anything nice to say about Paul Rabin beyond “he was a human being who did his best…” Paul dies while sadly lamenting that he doesn’t matter and never mattered; a sentiment likely shared by most Marvel Comics readers.
Venom #256 is now available at comic shops everywhere.
