Batman: More Than Just a Vigilante
Batman has been referred to as a vigilante for decades by Batman fans, but in the recent DC Comics issue "Batman / Dylan Dog #3," Bruce Wayne has declared himself a protector of Gotham City rather than a vigilante.
Batman Disowns "Vigilante"
While having a conversation with Dylan Dog, Bruce explicitly rejected the label "vigilante." His decision comes from a desire to differentiate himself from a common perception of him. Batman doesn't identify with the term as he views his role more as a protector.
Batman's Deep Love for Gotham
Batman’s claim to be a Protector goes beyond self-identification, revealing his devotion to his city. He claims Gotham is his true love. His role is less about self-gratification and more about guarding a place that holds great meaning for him.
The Evolution of Batman's Title
This is not the first instance of Batman disowning commonly held labels. He has also previously expressed disapproval for the title of "Caped Crusader" in another Comic Book issue, suggesting an evolving approach towards his portrayal. While Batman's role as a crime-fighting hero remains a constant, his relationship to titles associated with him is changing, further deepening the complexity of the character.
The Batman: More Than a "Dark Knight"
Despite all the iconic names associated with him, Batman’s core principle is his dedication to his home. As Bruce Wayne states in “Batman: Off-World," Gotham is a source of deep love. Batman’s transformation in the comics will offer exciting possibilities as the Batman comics evolve.
The Dark Knight of Gotham City
Batman's unwavering commitment to his home, Gotham City, defines his story. While he might reject labels like "vigilante," he’s still the powerful hero who fights against criminals like the Joker, while his skills and his Batman Gadgets are constantly developing, showing the continuing evolution of the Batman universe.