The Killing Joke

This lecture delves into 'The Killing Joke', a one-shot comic book that stands out in the American comics market for its departure from the typical serialization format. The instructor explores how 'The Killing Joke' breaks away from the continuity of DC Comics, offering a standalone story that challenges the boundaries set by the Comics Code Authority. The lecture analyzes the complex relationship between Batman and the Joker, highlighting the deconstruction of their characters and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy. Through a detailed examination of the narrative structure and visual elements, the lecture reveals how 'The Killing Joke' subverts traditional comic book storytelling, pushing the boundaries of the medium and inviting readers to question the nature of heroism and madness.