Constructing and Deconstructing the Modern Hero in The Dark Knight Trilogy

Abstract

This article aims to reveal the various representations of modernity and postmodernity in Christopher Nolan’s Batman Begins (2005), The Dark Knight (2008) and The Dark Knight Rises (2012). Across all three movies, it is asserted that Batman’s values correspond to modernity specifically in terms of his self-reflexive construction of the hero persona and his relationship with Gotham city. Furthermore, the way in which the villains confront Batman in a deconstructionist manner corresponds to the postmodern critique of modern values and constructs. What continues to make Batman a hero are precisely said to be his efforts and belief in modern values, both in his personal and social construction, despite facing endless accusations throughout the movies.