The story of the Hulk, one of Marvel Comics' most iconic characters, is a tale of science gone awry and the struggle between man and monster.

### Origin of the Hulk

The Hulk first appeared in *The Incredible Hulk* #1 in May 1962, created by writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby. The character is the alter ego of Dr. Robert Bruce Banner, a mild-mannered, brilliant scientist specializing in gamma radiation.

### The Gamma Bomb Incident

Bruce Banner's transformation into the Hulk occurred due to a tragic accident during a scientific experiment. Banner was working on a new type of weapon for the U.S. military, a gamma bomb. During a test of the bomb, a teenager named Rick Jones accidentally wandered onto the test site. In a heroic effort to save Rick, Banner rushed onto the testing ground, pushing the young man to safety but absorbing a massive dose of gamma radiation when the bomb detonated.

### The Transformation

Instead of killing him, the gamma radiation triggered a radical change in Banner's physiology. Whenever Banner became angry or stressed, he transformed into the Hulk, a giant, green-skinned creature of immense strength and rage. The Hulk's strength increases proportionally with his level of emotional stress, particularly anger, making him one of the most powerful beings in the Marvel Universe.

### Dual Nature

The duality of Banner and the Hulk is a central theme in the character's story. Banner is a brilliant scientist, often depicted as gentle, reserved, and rational. In stark contrast, the Hulk is primal, driven by raw emotion and often uncontrollable rage. This dichotomy explores the struggle between the intellect and the primal instincts within humans.

### The Hulk's Struggles

Throughout his story, the Hulk faces numerous challenges. He battles against villains and other superheroes, often finding himself misunderstood and hunted by those who see him as a threat. Despite his incredible power, the Hulk is a tragic figure, as Banner constantly seeks a cure for his condition, yearning for a normal life free from the monstrous alter ego.

### Major Story Arcs

Some of the most notable story arcs in Hulk's history include:

1. **"Planet Hulk"**: In this storyline, the Hulk is exiled to the planet Sakaar, where he becomes a gladiator and eventually a king, leading a rebellion against the oppressive Red King.
  
2. **"World War Hulk"**: Following the events of "Planet Hulk," the Hulk returns to Earth, seeking revenge on the Illuminati, the group of superheroes who sent him into space, leading to a massive confrontation.

3. **"Immortal Hulk"**: This more recent storyline delves into the horror aspects of the character, exploring the idea that the Hulk cannot die, adding a new layer of complexity and depth to his mythos.