Costuming in Batman

Hi, all! When reading Batman earlier in the week, one of the first things that struck me is the way in which Batman's costume becomes a central character in the stories and affirms the superhuman qualities of this "ordinary" socialite. Without the costume, Batman wouldn't be a superhero, and I suspect the comics wouldn't have had nearly as large an appeal.

I think it's worthwhile to note how Batman's costuming differs from that of other superheroes whose comics we have read earlier on in the semester. Whereas Superman or Wonder Woman's costumes clearly break the mold of normal, every day attire, they still stay well within the realm of what is considered "human" or "natural." We don't look at Superman's silhouette behind a full moon and say "what is that?"

Batman's attire, on the other hand, draws inspiration from the inhuman, from the "other." I believe this is what elevates him to the status of a Superhero, and is necessary for his larger-than-life ability, especially given the fact that he doesn't have any intrinsic super-human abilities.

The costuming of Batman also ties in to the mystery, Dr.-Jeckyll-Mr.-Hyde appeal to the comic we discussed in class. If Batman didn't appear (at least visually) as more bat than man, the mystery and intrigue behind the superhero would be lost.