Unmasking The Shadows of Gotham: A Study of Identity in The Batman (2022)
Date
2-18-2025
Faculty Mentor
Tanya Sasser, English
Files
Submission Type
Conference Proceeding
Location
1:15-1:25 pm | Houston Cole Library, 11th Floor
Description
Please note: no video is available for this presentation.
This paper studies the theme of identity in The Batman (2022). It analyzes how the film navigates Bruce Wayne’s dual existence as a reclusive orphaned billionaire and an unrelenting masked vigilante. Through its gruesome atmospheric narrative, the film examines how trauma, vengeance, and justice shape Batman’s sense of self. Ultimately, it questions whether his masked persona is an instrument for justice or an escape from his identity. The film critiques the blurred lines between justice and vigilantism by juxtaposing Batman’s moral struggles with those of characters like the Riddler and CatWoman. Using rhetorical analysis, this paper investigates how The Batman portrays Bruce Wayne’s identity as fluid yet fragmented and influenced by Gotham’s corruption. It highlights the psychological and ethical predicaments that define Bruce Wayne’s transformation into Batman.
Keywords
student research, English, film
Rights
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Disciplines
Film and Media Studies
Recommended Citation
Harp, Mia, "Unmasking The Shadows of Gotham: A Study of Identity in The Batman (2022)" (2025). JSU Student Symposium 2025. 21.
https://digitalcommons.jsu.edu/ce_jsustudentsymp_2025/21
