The Green Goblin is a supervillain featured in a variety of media, most famously as an archenemy of Spider-Man in the Marvel Comics universe The character has undergone a number of transformations and reinventions, from a costumed supervillain to a deranged businessman, with a variety of powers and weapons at his disposal.
The Green Goblin was first conceived by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko for their Amazing Spider-Man series debuting in 1963. He was originally created as the alter-ego of Norman Osborn, an industrialist trying to gain a foothold in the booming science and technology of the day. Osborn had become a mad scientist after being exposed to a chemical mixture that gave him superhuman strength, stamina, and superhuman intelligence. Though not initially evil, the mixture eventually drove Osborn insane, inspiring him to become the Green Goblin, a villain intent on world domination.
The Green Goblin’s powers and abilities vary depending on the incarnation, but typically he is able to fly (via a pumpkin bomb-propelled glider), use a variety of mischievous gadgets, and possess superhuman strength and agility.
The following are five of the most memorable characters created to personify the Green Goblin.
1. Norman Osborn/Green Goblin: This version of the Green Goblin is the most iconic, having been created and established as the archenemy of Spider-Man. He is a brilliant scientist, businessman and inventor, and is arguably the most dangerous and powerful of all the Green Goblins.
2. Harry Osborn/Green Goblin: Harry is the son of Norman Osborn, and took up his father’s mantle in the later issues of the Amazing Spider-Man series. Unlike his father, Harry was portrayed as a more sympathetic character, struggling with his own inner demons and eventual decent into villainy.
3. Phil Urich/Green Goblin: Phil is a former Daily Bugle employee and amateur vigilante who took up the mantle after the death of Harry Osborn. Initially portrayed as a more lighthearted version of the villain, Phil eventually adopted a darker persona, allowing him to confront Norman Osborn and other more sinister forces.
4. Bart Hamilton/Green Goblin: Bart was a wealthy and corrupt scientist who was given superhuman powers after an experimental process went wrong. He was first introduced in Marvel’s Fantastic Four series and later appeared as a recurring antagonist throughout the Spider-Man titles.
5. Roderick Kingsley/Green Goblin: Roderick was a selfish and ruthless businessman who became one of the most feared criminals in New York City after taking up the mantle of the Green Goblin. Though not as powerful as other versions, he was a masterful manipulator of public opinion and maintained a large criminal empire.