DC Universe Biographies: Batman!

Ever wondered why your DC Universe classic Batman figures look so serious? Today we delve into the mysteries of what made Batman into what he is today, -- half Bruce Wayne, half pointy-masked shadow! There are several stories, dating back from as far as 1939, and every one has undergone many revisions. We are taking a brief look at some major points today, not delving into a complete history. Feel free to add your own information in the comments!

DC Comics Golden Age of Batman, 1939-1956

Batman first appeared in Detective Comics #27, and his origin was first discuseed in edition #33 in 1939. His origin story has remained the same since then - Bruce Wayne was a privileged little boy in Gotham City, growing up with his socialite parents in Wayne Manor until age eight, when his parents are killed by a mugger in front of his eyes. Bruce Wayne is inspired to create his costume by a bat flying into his house, just as he is ruminating on what creature of the night would be appropriate to fight crime.

In this age, Batman:

• Has a fiancée named Julie Madison
• Gains his sidekick, Robin, an orphaned circus acrobat
• Is known as a problem for the police, rather than a godsend
• Gains his butler, Alfred Pennyworth

DC Comics Silver Age of Batman, 1956 - 1986

Batman's status as a DC Universe figure has been well and truly cemented by now! Some notable events marking the Silver age of Batman include:

• Batman's marriage to Earth-two Catwoman, Selina Kyle, and his fathering of the Huntress … Helena Wayne
• Batman is killed at one stage, after becoming the police commissioner for Gotham City and leaving his daughter to do Batman's previous work.
• We get to explore his upbringing by his uncle, Philip Wayne
• Batman and Superman become friends
  
• The Joker rises to prominence again, after his brief appearances during the Golden Age

DC Universe Modern Batman

In the modern Batman era, Batman figures:

• as no longer depicted a founding member of the Justice League - though he returns to the League later on
• The second Robin, Jason Todd, dies and is eventually replaced by Tim Drake
• Batman's relationship with Gotham City police deteriorates - they are by now mostly corrupt, and though Batman has a few allies they die during this period.