My Favourite Era of Batman Comics and Why

Among all the eras in Batman's comic history, my heart holds a special place for the early Bronze Age. If you've ever asked me about my favorite era, I would unequivocally say it was the late Silver Age into the Bronze Age, from 1968 to 1978. This period stood as a bridge between the campiness of the 1950s and 1960s and the darkness of the modern era. Let me walk you through why I cherish this time so much.

The Late Silver Age and Early Bronze Age

The late Silver Age (1968-1978) was a period characterized by a return to the fundamentals of Batman's character. Denny O'Neil and Neal Adams played a crucial role in this revival, stripping away the wacky aspects of the 1960s TV show and focusing on the detective side of Batman. They emphasized the importance of Batman's brain over his brawn, presenting him as the world's greatest detective. Imagine Batman as a modern-day Sherlock Holmes, but with a superhero suit. This era showcased Batman's unmatched deductive skills and his role as an inventive and scientific genius.

The body type of Bruce Wayne during this period was also different. He was no longer portrayed as a muscle-bound weight-lifter but rather as an athletic figure, skilled in martial arts and combat. This portrayal added a new dimension to his character, making him a multifaceted hero.

Post Crisis Era: A Golden Age of Batman Comic Publications

Another significant period in Batman's comic history is often referred to as the Post Crisis era. Starting from March 1986 to 2011 (pre-Flashpoint), this era is a golden age for Batman publications. For someone who first discovered Batman comics during this period, the nostalgia factor is strong. This era set the foundation for how I perceive the Dark Knight and influenced my taste in comic books.

One cannot ignore the fact that the Post Crisis era has produced some of Batman's best works. It's safe to say that, as a whole, this era is the greatest of all time (GOAT). The comic series like The Dark Knight Returns, which portrays a bitter Batman nearing the end of his career, and Grant Morrison's Batman and Robin series, which reimagined Batman and his relationships, are standout examples. Morrison also introduced new characters and ideas that, although initially controversial, captivated my imagination.

There are other notable series from this era as well, such as White Knight and Court of Owls, but they don't quite measure up to the overall quality and impact of the Post Crisis era. While there were certainly other valuable moments, the majority of the works from this period are unparalleled.

Mysteries and Personal Connections

As I wasn't much into pre-Crisis Batman, the late Silver Age and early Bronze Age were the only periods I had the opportunity to explore. In addition to my fondness for these comics, I also adored the post-Zero Hour era of Wonder Woman and the storylines involving the JLA. These factors collectively contributed to my positive opinion of the Post Crisis era.

The Post Crisis era is also noteworthy for the work of Grant Morrison, from 2006 until the publication of Batman RIP. Morrison's contributions to Batman's narrative were groundbreaking, introducing new perspectives and characters that resonated with many readers, including myself. Even the difficulty of acquiring issues like Batman 655-656 added an extra layer of personal connection and appreciation for these stories.

Final Thoughts

Comic publishers, including DC, have been catering to the tastes and preferences of modern comic readers. The 2000s, in particular, saw a shift towards a darker, more realistic portrayal of characters, which resonated with readers like me who were growing up in that era. This period marked a departure from the over-the-top 1980s and early 1990s style, offering a more grounded and mature take on superhero narratives.

To sum up, whether it's the late Silver Age and early Bronze Age or the Post Crisis era, both have their merits. However, for me, the Post Crisis era stands out as a time when Batman comics truly hit their stride. It's a time that not only captured my imagination but also influenced my taste in superhero comics.