Between the Dynamic Duo, Batman often earns the reputation of being the “scary one,” yet a classic DC hero has admitted to feeling utterly terrified of Dick Grayson’s Robin. However, the concept of Robin instilling fear is not exclusive to Dick; it’s a recurring theme that extends to all Robins, as if it’s an overarching rite of passage to become scarier than Batman.
In Grant Morrison and Cameron Stewart’s Batman and Robin #9, Batman Dick Grayson joins forces with Knight and Squire to revive a recently deceased Batwoman, who perished while attempting to aid Dick in resurrecting Bruce using a Lazarus pit.
After Dick casually outlines his strategy to tunnel through the cave-in using their hands to reach the Lazarus pit, Knight reveals that he was once “absolutely terrified” of Dick during his time as Robin, implying that the current events and Dick’s madman plan have resoundingly justified his previous reservations about Dick.
Knight Was “Absolutely Terrified” of Dick Grayson When He Was Robin
In the aftermath of his confession, Knight further expounds, expressing his unease with Dick during his Robin days, describing him as a “rough and raucous little demon boy, always somersaulting around, cracking weird jokes in some barely decipherable accent.“ The use of the word “demon” suggests that Knight perceived Robin’s behavior as beyond human, which ultimately unsettled him about the Boy Wonder’s nature. This portrayal of Dick is particularly fitting as it subtly highlights various facets of his character, with “somersaulting” alluding to his circus origin and the “decipherable accent” nodding to his Romani heritage.
The timing of Knight’s admission implies that he still perceives that unsettling, inhuman quality in Dick, especially evident when he later remarks, “I was right to think you were a bit bloody mental, wasn’t I?” Although his words may come across as harsh or even outright insulting, the context reveals them to be more akin to observations spurred by his sheer incredulity at the situation. Thus, this single-panel blurb offers a revealing glimpse into the awe (and perhaps fear) that other heroes feel in the presence of Dick Grayson.
It’s a Robin Tradition to Become More Terrifying Than Batman
Bruce Wayne is unquestionably a badass, but each of his Robins has arguably possessed a more terrifying demeanor in their own unique way. Dick Grayson’s charismatic yet mischievous nature, coupled with his unparalleled acrobatic and combat skills, often made him appear more like an otherworldly, ageless being than a mere child sidekick. Jason Todd’s defiance of death itself, clawing his way out of his grave, overcoming the effects of a Lazarus pit, and wielding the All-Blades, showcases a resilience that not even Death can dampen.
Timothy Drake’s unmatched genius intellect has enabled him to systematically dismantle DC’s most dangerous supervillains, including Ra’s al Ghul, single-handedly. Damian Wayne, with his naturally menacing aura, willingness to do whatever it takes, and background as a former child assassin, has consistently emerged as the “last Bat standing” in various Elseworlds scenarios when the rest of his family has perished. Hence, it’s not Batman who villains should fear but rather his Robins.
Batman and Robin #9 is available now from DC Comics!
BATMAN AND ROBIN #9 (2010) | |
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