The life and death of Damian Wayne (Batman's son)

Everyone has an idea about who the Batman is. Perhaps significantly less people know about his son – Damian Wayne. Damian was introduced as a brash, spoilt kid in the Batman mythos in 2006. His first appearance in Batman #655 has him identifying his father Bruce Wayne to his mother watching the posture and mannerism of several selected men in view.

The story unfolded when Gotham is plagued by the arrival of several Bat-creatures (like the Man-bat). They defeat Batman and Talia Al Ghul, daughter of Ra's Al Ghul, emerges as the mastermind. She introduces young Damian, tells Batman he is his son and warns him of impending doom. Batman brings him to the bat-cave. He throws tempers at everyone; calls names; refers to Alfred as 'servant' and reacts aggressively at the sight of the current Robin, Tim Drake. Later, he shows Tim the head of a thug he beat and killed. He boasts how easily he overcame the Bat-cave's voice control mechanism; and attacks Tim, leaving him near dead.

While we are shocked and appalled by the nature of Damian, we are also shown the potential of the character by creator Grant Morrison and company. Damian shows time and again how despite all his attitude, he means well. He slowly grows into a heroic figure in the Bat-family. His attitude and upbringing being his drawbacks – he in time proves himself worthy to don the role of Robin. Damian is a master of the martial arts, trained by the League of Assassins. He is incredibly smart and resourceful, but is too rash. Bruce Wayne is always aware of this, and he tries to be a calming influence and like every parent, his protector. But even the Batman could not save his son from fate.

Grant Morrison has said in interviews that Batman Incorporated #8 is the last of Damian Wayne and that he planned a small role for Damian in the Batman mythos all those years ago. Now, the plans have come full circle. He has no wish to bring his young creation back. Perhaps this loss too will pave for greater things to come in the stories. But we fans will miss the young hot-head. Who among us was not a rebel in our youth? Who did not dream of being part of something grand growing up? Damian's last action was that of rushing into impossible odds to save peoples' lives; in the story aptly called “the Boy Wonder returns!” Rest in peace Damian. You will be missed.