This year we got the sequel to an amazing story that began five years ago. In the rich tapestry of comic book lore, few characters have captured hearts and minds like Spider-Man. However, the introduction of Miles Morales as Spider-Man in both comics and the groundbreaking animated film “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” marked a significant turning point. In this exploration, we delve into the importance of Miles Morales, the cultural impact of “Into the Spider-Verse,” the sequel “Across the Spider-Verse,” and innovative ways to teach these stories in the classroom.

Miles Morales: A Web-Slinger for a New Generation

Comics:
Miles Morales, created by writer Brian Michael Bendis and artist Sara Pichelli, made his debut in Marvel Comics in 2011. As a biracial teenager of African-American and Puerto Rican descent, Miles brought a fresh perspective to the Spider-Man legacy. His journey grapples with the challenges of identity, responsibility, and the weight of a superhero mantle. Suggested reading: “Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man” by Brian Michael Bendis.

Into the Spider-Verse:
The 2018 animated film “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” catapulted Miles Morales into the spotlight. The film’s groundbreaking animation style and narrative complexity earned it critical acclaim and an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. “Into the Spider-Verse” not only introduced Miles to a wider audience but also celebrated the diversity of Spider-People across different dimensions.

Across the Spider-Verse:
The sequel, “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” continues Miles Morales’ story but this time Gwen Stacy becomes the shared protagonist. The film expands the Spider-Verse, offering audiences a fresh perspective on the multiverse and the enduring legacy of Spider-Man. This continuation allows for ongoing discussions about representation, identity, and the evolving landscape of superhero storytelling.

Cultural Impact: Breaking Barriers in Animation

“Into the Spider-Verse” shattered the conventional boundaries of animated storytelling. Its unique visual style combined with an engaging narrative resonated with audiences worldwide. The film’s celebration of diversity, both in terms of characters and storytelling, was a pivotal moment for representation in animation. Miles Morales became an inspiration for countless viewers who saw themselves reflected in his journey.

Teaching Miles Morales: Bringing Comics to the Classroom

1. Diversity and Representation: Use Miles Morales’ story to explore the importance of diversity and representation in media. Discuss the impact of having a biracial superhero on readers and viewers, emphasizing the significance of seeing oneself reflected in popular culture.
2. Identity and Coming-of-Age: Miles Morales grapples with the challenges of being a teenager, a superhero, and navigating his identity. Explore themes of coming-of-age, self-discovery, and the universal struggles faced by young people.
3. Multiverse Concepts: “Into the Spider-Verse” introduces the concept of a multiverse, where various Spider-People exist across dimensions. Use this as a starting point for discussions on parallel universes, alternate realities, and the creative possibilities within storytelling.
4. Animation Techniques: Explore the unique animation techniques employed in “Into the Spider-Verse.” Discuss the impact of visual storytelling on the audience and how animation can be a powerful medium for conveying complex narratives.
5. ACMI Resources: For more ideas and a collection of specific resources for the film checkout this webpage provided by the ACMI (formerly Australian Centre for the Moving Image). I linked some of their resources incase the webpages got taken down later.

Conclusion: A Web-Woven Legacy Continues

Miles Morales, both in comics and on the big screen, represents a groundbreaking chapter in the Spider-Man legacy. His journey speaks to the power of representation, the impact of diverse storytelling, and the universal themes of identity and responsibility. As “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” swings into theaters, the ongoing narrative of Miles Morales provides educators with new material to engage students in discussions about diversity, storytelling techniques, and the enduring appeal of iconic superheroes in our ever-evolving cultural landscape. Miles Morales’ legacy continues to be a testament to the transformative power of comics and the importance of weaving diverse narratives into the fabric of our shared storytelling experience.

This is part of my Comics in the Classroom series where I look at the importance of the comic book industry and how to use them as resources in the classroom. To read more check out my other posts. (Link)