batman

Batman is a fictional superhero from DC Comics. Created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger, he first appeared in Detective Comics #27 (1939). The character’s secret identity is Bruce Wayne, a billionaire industrialist and philanthropist who, after his parents are murdered before him, dedicates his life to fighting crime in Gotham City. Unlike many superheroes, Batman has no superpowers; he relies on peak physical and intellectual conditioning, martial arts, and a wide array of gadgets and vehicles funded by Wayne Enterprises.

Operating from the Batcave beneath Wayne Manor, Batman maintains a strict moral code that generally prohibits killing. He works with allies such as Alfred Pennyworth, Lucius Fox, and Commissioner James Gordon, and mentors several partners including Robin, Batgirl, and Nightwing. His rogues gallery—Joker, Penguin, Riddler, Two-Face, Scarecrow, and Bane among others—provides most of his adversaries, though Catwoman is often an ally or love interest.

Batman has been adapted across many media, including animated series, live-action films, and video games. Notable portrayals include actors Michael Keaton, Christian Bale, and Ben Affleck, with Robert Pattinson portraying a newer interpretation. Iconic storylines such as Year One, The Dark Knight Returns, and The Killing Joke have influenced the comics genre and popular culture. The character remains a defining figure in the modern conception of the vigilante detective in superhero fiction.