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dc - Why are there so many different bat symbols?



Over the years of superheroes not many superheroes' symbols have changed as much as Batman (my opinion, not fact).


Why hasn't Batman had any concrete symbol?


batman over the years



Answer



The simplest answer is Batman has had a lot of different interpretations. He is one of DC Comics most highly interpreted and recreated characters. Those images are not the only representations, the Bat-logo on his chest has an equally impressive visual pedigree.


Each of those symbols is a different property attempting to bring a unique perspective to the Dark Knight. Each of them was seeking an icon while reminiscent of the Batlogo on Batman's chest (which has also had lots of permutations) was still unique and distinctive enough to represent THEIR take on the Batman.


When you consider how many different Bat properties there are, the number of logos makes sense:



  • Batman 1940s character defines the logo

  • DC releases first revision of logo in 1965


  • Batman TV show in 1960's character brings Batman to the general consciousness of the people

  • First Batman cartoon, Filmation 1977

  • Major departure of Batman from his roots of leading the Bat-family and working away from the Justice League with Batman and the Outsiders (need new logo to denote separation)

  • Frank Miller's Dark Knight creates an alternative Batman, aging, angry, and still trying to keep up the good fight. Also remembered for thrashing fascist Superman.

  • The Knightfall logo was a major departure from the character having an entirely different man, Jean-Paul Valley/Azrael, become the Batman

  • Every Bat-movie will have a unique logo, just to keep itself distinguished from any others that come along later.

  • Every animation will do the same, hoping to create a unique appearance that resonates with the watchers of that period. The Batman Beyond universe/logo is one such universe. Strong characters and Bruce Wayne as coordinator stand out.

  • Every DC Comic starring Batman will also try to brand their particular book with a Bat-logo to help them be noticed on the comic stands.


While Batman has a wide array of image icons used for media and marketing, I suspect you will find almost every well marketed character will have a similar bevy of icons used to represent them.



Batman is unique only because he has such a strong symbol that has ignited the imaginations of artists everywhere to take that symbol and make memorable and yet recognizable versions of that very first and very simple logo.


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