Batman in the Eighties

Kane, Bob. Batman in the Eighties. New York : DC Comics, 2004.

Plot: A collection of key Batman comics from the 1980's. The time represented a season of change for the Caped Crusader. Many of the characters and themes introduced in the 1970's, such as aliens and Bat-Mite, were removed and darker, more dramatic characters and storylines took over. The 1980's witnessed the death of Robin, Nightwing joining the New Teen Titans, and Batgirl became a solo operative. Batman subsequently became more solitary, less compromising, and more aggressive. He also gained the grey, black, and yellow costume he currently sports in movies and animated renditions.

Genre: Comics

Reading Level: Batman, like many comics in the 1980's, took more interest in adult readers than children viewers. As such, the stories focus more on "adult" focuses such as murder, swearing, and violence. Approach with caution.

Similar Titles: Superman, The Flash, Wonder Woman

Personal Thoughts: Batman, like nearly every comic book series, took a dramatic turn for the weird in the eighties. Books such as The Watchman and movies like Batman Returns allowed adults to unashamedly enjoy their comics based hobbies without mockery. However, the sudden rise in mature popularity required comic publishers to present comics with adult themes. The transition did not go over smoothly. Heroes became jerks, stories became dark, and villains gained angst in the name of becoming more adult-oriented. However, how mature should viewers want a grown man with bat ears to behave? Much of the high-spirited adventure initially offered by the originals was lost for contrived emotional highs, and comics as a whole have yet to  find a pleasing balance between youthful adventure and genuine emotion.