“Kraven’s Last Hunt” is (arguably) one of the best comics ever produced. Yes, J.M. DeMatteis and Mike Zeck are a phenomenal writer and artist combo, but it’s more than that. It does an excellent job of exploring the pressures of living up to beliefs of what it means to be a “real” man.
 
In the Marvel universe, Kraven is a man’s man. He prides himself at being the best hunter in the world. He sports a set of 12 pack abs, and has amazingly chiseled features.

Even though this is true, he still sees himself as lesser because he has always been bested by Spider-Man; a man a fraction of size and a fraction of his macho charisma. So, Kraven traps Spider-Man, assumes his identity, and proves to himself he is a better hero than Spider-Man, and so a better man. However, what is amazing about the comic, is that it provides a deeper message about masculinity and its negative effects.

Afterwards, Kraven gives Spider-Man back his costume, goes into an adjacent room, and kills himself.

Why is this important? Well, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, in 2022, men died by suicide 3.85 times more than women. That’s almost 4xs more. While there are many factors that impact this statistic, it stems from the belief of what it means to be a “real” man. November is Men’s Health Awareness Month which includes mental health. If you have a male in your life you care about, check on them. If you believe they may be in need of some healing and supports, let them know it is okay. Let them know it’s better to be a “good” man rather than attempt to live up to the false beliefs of what it means to be “real” man.