Why Starfire Deserves Our Love, and Why Barbara Gordon Deserves More Admiration

In the sprawling universe of DC Comics, no character attracts more praise and admiration than the fiery alien Starfire. Conversely, while Barbara Gordon, popularly known as Babs or Batgirl, often garners criticism, she remains a beloved and inspiring figure, especially from those who understand her tale.

Starfire: The Best Alien Character Ever?

From her spiky red hair to her compassionate spirit, Starfire is undeniably one of the best and most beloved alien characters in comic books. Just like Kara Zor-El inspired Superman, it's clear that her creators poured their hearts into her creation, making her a symbol of hope and determination in the DC universe. Her unmatched personality and superhuman abilities make her a cherished character, widely adored by fans worldwide.

Barbara Gordon: A Misunderstood Figure

However, despite Starfire’s adulation, Barbara Gordon's character arcs often receive harsh criticism. Many fans and critics argue that she has been unfairly treated or portrayed in certain stories. The narrative often focuses on Barbara's past as a victim, with far fewer discussions surrounding her resilience and strength. Barbara's journey from the supposed underdog to a leader in her own right is a testament to her character's depth and complexity. From her time as Oracle to her role as Batgirl and Gotham’s protector, she has faced and overcome numerous challenges.

The Editor’s Pawn and the Rebel

Barbara Gordon's journey is often framed within the context of the editor's pawn. Critics argue that she has been used to undermine other female characters, particularly Kathy Kane, the original Batwoman. Her introduction to the Birds of Prey team was seen as a way to silence Kathy by emphasizing her physical appearance, rather than her abilities. However, it's important to recognize that Barbara's inspiration stemmed from the feminist movement, emphasizing the importance of empowering women in the comic world.

Despite her initial portrayal, Barbara's character has evolved over time. She has been portrayed as a strong and capable leader, particularly in the animated series "Batman: The Animated Series" where she is depicted as a smart and capable vigilante. Her relationships with other characters, such as Dick Grayson and Damian Wayne, have been complex and nuanced, showing her depth as a character.

Barbara's Complex Relationships

Barbara's relationships have often been scrutinized, particularly her relationship with Dick Grayson. While she has been accused of stringing him along, this narrative ignores the complexity of their bond. Her treatment of Dick is often portrayed as a mix of protectiveness and manipulation, but this dynamic is typical of many of her relationships. Her interactions with other characters like Damian Wayne have also been criticized, but these portrayals often miss the underlying themes of maternal care and mentorship.

Conclusion: Understanding Babs

The human race is genetically programmed to adore irrepressibly feisty redheads with a slightly mischievous heart of gold—a trait embodied perfectly by Babs Gordon. She has gone through a tremendous amount of adversity, surviving brutal attacks and loss, and emerged as a beacon of hope and resilience. Her journey from a police commissioner to an iconic superhero and beyond is a powerful testament to her strength and character.

While Barbara Gordon may not always be given the credit she deserves, her role as a stalwart protector and an inspiration to many cannot be denied. She is an integral part of the DC Comics universe, and it is high time we recognize the depth and complexity of her character. Babs deserves more love and admiration for the battles she has fought and the legacy she has built.