Batman is considered a hero with his No Kill
rule, believing that even the worst villains can change. But that doesn’t seem to apply to everyone. In a recent story, he names three villains who will likely never change.
What kind of story is it? Batman / Superman: World’s Finest is a comic series written by Mark Waid and illustrated by Dan Mora. It has been published since March 2022 and showcases a partnership between the two heroes, who also receive help from others.
In the series, they fight together against various threats, which usually endanger the entire world. In line with the art style, the series is not as dark as other Batman titles, but rather colorful, hopeful, and with a positive undertone.
In issue #50 of the series, as Screen Rant reports, there is a small discussion between the two heroes after Superman notes that Batman treats Catwoman differently than other villains. He mentions that while Catwoman should be in prison, one should weigh depending on the villain. There are enemies who cannot be rehabilitated. He even names three examples.
After 86 years, Batman addresses it
Which villains does Batman name? Superman disagrees with Batman on this point, believing that there is always a chance for redemption. The Dark Knight sees it differently and names three villains that he claims probably have no soul: Joker, Nezha, and Eclipso.
Who are these three villains?
- The Joker: Everyone probably knows the Clown Prince. Since 1940, he has haunted Gotham with his crimes, and Batman has repeatedly faced the question of why he doesn’t just kill him. The Joker has never really shown that he will change, and like a sore, he always comes back.
- Nezha: Nezha is a demon who made his debut in 2021. Originally, he was a Chinese warlord from the 16th century BC, who was revived. In the current series, Superman and Batman have already had to deal with him. With brainwashing, he triggered a great battle between villains and heroes.
- Eclipso: He has existed since 1963. Even though he looks like a big goblin, he is a powerful being based on the wrath of God. He uses dark magic and has, depending on his appearance, almost unlimited energy as a divine being.
The mentioned villains show no signs of ever doing good or repenting for their actions, which makes Batman’s statement that they have no soul quite accurate. In this context, Batman explains that one puts themselves in danger when they let these villains out of sight. Quite ironic, considering that Batman has a lot of hope for the villains.
Batman’s moral dilemma
What is Batmans rule about? Batman is known for his legendary rule that he does not kill anyone. This is often explained by his desire to be different from criminals. This often presents a moral dilemma with which he is confronted. A famous example is Jason Todd.
He always gives the villains a chance to change, which seems a bit absurd in the case of individuals like the Joker, considering all he has done and how he argues in the new issue of World’s Finest.
But there are also counterexamples. Mr. Freeze, Clayface, Harley Quinn, and Poison Ivy have shown in various storylines that there is some good hidden within them and that they can atone for their mistakes.
By the way, the classic Superman is also opposed to killing, but there are occasionally fatal conflicts, likely due to the balance of powers. As a symbol of hope, he is also meant to represent redemption.
There are universes where Batman and Superman are not the heroic costumed figures who hold on to their moral principles. One single bad day completely changed Superman: The Joker attempted to break Batman for years, but for Superman, he only needed one day.
