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The Dark Knight Returns

Frank Miller's post-retirement tale of Batman is well-known and revered in the comic book industry. An aging Bruce Wayne dons the cowl one last time as Gotham City begins to implode without the Batman, teaming up with a new, plucky Robin in hopes of saving the day. This is an industry staple; a must-read.

The Dark Knight Returns is a critique of American society, their fascination with violence, and their disconnect from empathy. It is also a sendoff to Batman that wound up being a catlyst for the modern age of comics, alongside Watchmen. Miller explores Batman and Joker's relationship, examining the yin-yang pull the two exhibits on one another. He also addresses heroism versus complacency. Heroes exist to serve the people, not a government, and one major character, in particular, had to be taught that.

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