Gwen Stacy was born inΒ Forest HillsΒ toΒ GeorgeΒ andΒ Helen Stacy. Following her mother's death, she was raised by George alone. Gwen's free spirit and artistic inclinations often put her at odds with the type of ethics her father worked to instill. As a result of this contrast with her father, Gwen would often retreat into quiet seclusion and play the drums.
Over time, she developed a friendship with her neighbor and fellow introvertΒ Peter Parker, sharing their love for music.Β AtΒ Midtown High School, Gwen developed relationships with other students, a group of girls with whom she formed the band,Β The Mary Janes, and rebellious affluent studentΒ Harry Osborn.
After being bitten by aΒ genetically-engineered spider, Gwen was granted arachnid-like super-powers, and started a career as a crimefighter, dubbed by the media as "Spider-Woman." She was given a costume and a set ofΒ Web-ShootersΒ by retired crimefighterΒ Janet van Dyne. Gwen spent most of her early adventures focused on exploiting and maintaining her newfound attention more than helping those in need; however, Gwen's behavior changed after her father expressed he believed Spider-Woman could easily help people.
