Issue Two

Juxtaposition / Irony

1. Why are the sounds on the radio referred to as “Rice Krispy” sounds?
2. Tiers two and three: twice we read the message on Gordon’s coffee mug. In what way is it ironic? Does the message juxtapose itself against anything/anyone?
3. Pages 26-7: whose violence is Gordon attempting to prevent and what does this communicate to the reader?
4. What juxtaposition is present on page 29, and what purpose does it serve?
5. What irony is important on page 30, and what is communicated to the reader?

Characterisation

1. Pages 29-30: what makes Gordon an exceptionally good cop?
2. Is he a good man? What failings does he have?
3. Explain Batman’s appearance on pages 31-33. What is the reader supposed to learn about this stage of his journey?
4. Is the storytelling on pages 31-33 compressed or decompressed? What is the impact of this decision?
5. How is the changing dynamic within the police force represented?
6. What do Miller and Mazzucchelli depict Batman doing on May 19? What is the purpose of his action on these pages?

Page Analysis: Page 38

1. How is Batman depicted differently here compared to previously?
2. Describe and justify the use of colour (or the lack of it) in this page.
3. Why does Miller depict the waiter’s reaction to Batman?
4. What is the atmosphere of this page, and how is it created?
5. Why is there a “blank” panel at the end of the sequence?
6. Explain the overall purpose of this page – what is achieved?