Batman

1. Origin

Batman first appeared in March 1939, in the 27th issue of Detective Comics, published by DC Comics (though May 1939 is indicated on the cover, because cover dates were used to let newsdealers know when to remove the unsold copies). Thus, 2014 was Batman's 75th anniversary.

2. The creators

The creators of Batman are Bob Kane and Bill Finger. Bob Kane created Batman as a combination of Zorro, the Shadow and Dracula. He asked for Finger's advice, who changed the wings for a scalloped cape, the domino mask for a cowl and the red costume (reminding of Superman) for a grey and black one. He also made Batman a detective. Bill Finger wrote the first Batman comic and many others but was uncredited with them. However, on the cover of DC Comics' 75th anniversary edition of the first Batman issue, you can finally see Finger's name. It was the first time it had ever happened.

3. Batman's story

The story begins in a realm called “Gotham City”, Batman’s hometown. The young Batman, whose real name is Bruce Wayne, lived happily with his parents until the dark day of their death. The child had to watch his parents get killed in front of him, and he could not do anything against it. On that day, Batman swore an oath to spend the rest of his life fighting against the dark forces, and by doing so, to avenge his parents. He began his training by leaving Gotham City and travelling abroad. He went to Europe and studied in various European universities. He developed both his mental and physical abilities to become as strong as he could. Years later, he came back to Gotham City, ready to fight crime. But one thing was missing: his costume! As a child, Batman was extremely scared of... bats. That is why he chose this unusual animal as his symbol. Batman quickly became an urban legend, fighting and defending the city every night. He made some friends and sidekicks but also many enemies. He also joins other superheroes and belongs to the Justice League. The rest of the time, Bruce Wayne is a famous, wealthy business man.

4. The cultural impact

Batman touched a lot of people by portraying a battle against evil. Besides the fact that Bruce Wayne marvels children by being a righteous person, brave and ingenious, he also imparts noble values. The policy of Lyndon Johnson, known as the 'Great Society' from 1965, is behind most of them. Indeed, Johnson’s values such as fighting poverty, helping needy families and saving money for honourable undertakings are those that this cloaked character supports. Moreover, the popularity of this superhero has been used to give hope and joy. For example, Lenny B. Robinson started in 2012 to visit children hospitals dressed like Batman, delighting the sick kids. Finally, we have the series and films that contributed to Batman's popularity. In 1943, the masked hero appeared for the first time on a screen. It was the first of a long series of adaptations and the next one is scheduled for 2016.

Justine Bauvir, Marine Jacob, Hanae Roquet