Death looms large over our two panels of the day as we showcase some historic demises in Marvel history.

First up we have 1973’s Amazing Spider-Man issue #121 and the death of Peter Parker’s long time girlfriend, Gwen Stacy. Kidnapped by the Green Goblin she is hurled off the Brooklyn Bridge and Spidey’s own attempt to save her inadvertently snaps her neck, instantly killing her. It’s darkly poetic in it’s own way and a pretty ballsy and badass move for the early 1970’s. The infamous panel has rightfully earned it’s ranking as a classic.

Next we have the death of Elektra at the hands of Bullseye. Daredevil #181 marked a turning point in Frank Miller’s classic run, having only been introduced 13 issues earlier Elektra’s death was a genuine shock. She had replaced the psychopath, Bullseye as Kingpin’s chief assasin but this was something he couldn’t live down. In a beautifully choreographed battle the end result was him impaling her through the abdomen with her own weapon. It’s a grotesque scene (look a the sheer joy and exuberance on Bullseye face) but one that will forever stand out.  Elektra of course would go on to play a large role in the history of both Daredevil and Matt Murdock as Marvel decided to resurrect her years later but nothing would ever dampen the impact of this infamous panel.

There you have it. Death is a part of life, but in comic books it’s rarely ever permanent.

All images and characters depicted are copyright of their respective owners.