The Spectacular Spider-Man # 173 VF/NM

The Spectacular Spider-Man #173, titled "Creatures Stirring," was published by Marvel Comics in November 1990 (cover-dated February 1991). It is a special Christmas-themed issue that explores a surprisingly human side of one of Spider-Man's greatest enemies. 

Plot Summary

The story, written by Gerry Conway and David Michelinie with art by Sal Buscema, focuses on the holiday season in Gotham: 

• Doctor Octopus's Pilgrimage: On Christmas Eve, Otto Octavius visits Forest Hills, Queens, not to attack, but to secretly watch Aunt May from afar. May is the only person who ever showed him true kindness, and he feels a deep, melancholy connection to her.
• The Conflict: Spider-Man discovers Octavius peering through May's window and assumes the worst, leading to a fierce battle on the front lawn.
• A Holiday Ceasefire: The fight ends abruptly when Aunt May steps outside to investigate the noise. To Spider-Man's surprise, Doc Ock apologizes for the disturbance and peacefully departs, unwilling to ruin May's holiday.
• The Daily Bugle Party: The issue also features a lighter subplot where Peter Parker attends the Daily Bugle Christmas party. After being taunted by the sleazy reporter Nick Katzenberg, Peter finally loses his cool and dunks Katzenberg into the punch bowl. 

Key Details

• Creators: Plot by Gerry Conway, script by David Michelinie, and art by Sal Buscema.
• Notable First Appearance: This issue marks the first appearance of Sargent Blume, a character who becomes significant in the "Trial of the Rose" storyline.