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jinxedfinch · 5 years ago

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Love your blog! I wanted to know how to write the batfams personality. I'm trying to write a fanfic and I read other fanfics about them to get a personality down but each fanfic has a specific batfam member with a different personality than the last fanfic I read. If you have any advice or a blog that you could recommend that narrow down on the batfams traits and flaws that would be great. Have a nice day!

Holy jeez I’m bad at answering on time

Anyway, this is mostly what I gathered from a mix of canon and fanon, and anyone else with suggestions can feel free to drop them

(placed under the cut for length)

Dick is a caring friend, natural leader, and your quintessential eldest brother. He wins over allies with his wit and charisma and doesn’t let societal norms confine him. Dick is a big risk-taker and refuses to give up even when the odds are stacked against him. Compared to the other Bats, he’s an optimist who wears his emotions on his sleeve and isn’t afraid to say what he thinks. Of the Bats, he’s also the most open and sociable. He comes off as a mother hen at times, but that’s usually when the group lacks guidance otherwise, like when Bruce disappeared. Otherwise, Dick is your typical older brother who embodies the phrase “only I can make fun of you”. He respects women and values each individual’s differences and strengths. Dick knows who he is and has a healthy balance between an independent and interdependent self-construal. If you find yourself lost, Dick Grayson will be your compass.

Jason is headstrong, sarcastic, and understandably jaded after all he’s been through. He’s resistant to orders and authority and takes direct action with a more dangerous MO. It’s easy to see why he’s often labeled as the rogue Bat. However, there is a softer side that he doesn’t openly acknowledge. Canonically, Jason is a literature nerd who loves learning. He’s also good at seeing emotions in others, but not in himself. He is loyal and values his friends and family—he even refers to Roy as “his other half” and similarly cheesy things. Jason would likely agree with the phrase “an unjust law is no law at all” and he helps those in need because he’s been where they are. Similar to Dick, Jason will tease his siblings mercilessly, but he’s more liberal with foul language. There are times where he lets his anger get the best of him, but his heart is in the right place. When the rest of the world is against you, Jason Todd will have your back.

Tim is so much more than a mini Bruce. Yes, he’s intelligent and knows his technology and strategy, but he is by no means the runt of the litter. Tim is a highly nuanced character, which is why he’s one of my favorite to write. He’s a quick and calculated fighter who bridges the gap between theory and practice. He is not only a great detective, but also a good CEO, a talented photographer, a capable leader, and a supportive friend. The biggest difference between Tim and Bruce is that Tim, over time, learns to ask for help and lean on his friends. Tim is generally seen as reserved and a hard worker, but the Young Justice team gradually gets him to open up. He’s got a whole 90s prep-jock-nerd-goth vibe going for him and his internal monologue is reminiscent of Tony Stark. He’s charming and liked by many and is shown to be a good boyfriend. Tim’s greatest strength is his ability to think his way out of any situation. Stuck in a bind? Tim Drake is your guy.

Damian is the son of the Bat who came from two drastically different environments, both of which shaped him in important ways. Beacuse of the League of Assassin’s training, Damian is very mature for his age, highly intelligent, a skilled combatant, and not the most emotionally warm person around. As he spends time with the Bats, he’s learned that family is not confined to blood or birthright. He’s also slowly learned to act his age, with the help of friends like Colin Wilkes, Jon Kent, and Maya Ducard. That said, contrary to both canon and fanon, I don’t think it’s accurate to have Damian reject everything on his mother’s side in favor of his father’s—it’s unrealistic and frankly, a little racist. He’s got a big heart and loves deeply, but doesn’t know how to express it. He’s also got a soft spot for animals, since they don’t judge like people do, and enjoys drawing in his free time. At times, his thinking can be black-and-white and he needs to learn to allow for leeway. He’s rude and bratty at times, but he’s far from evil. If anyone’s going to stick by you ‘till the end of the line, it’s Damian Wayne.

Duke is a newbie, but he’s not naive. He is sane (compared to the rest), but he’s not a stick in the mud. Duke will step up to the plate when no one else is brave enough to right the wrongs. He sees Gotham from the ground level and knows exactly which aspects could use the most improvement, and he won’t stand by when injustice occurs. Duke is a sunshine boy and he’s really what brings the classic Batman franchise into the twenty-first century. Canonically, Duke deals with PTSD from his parents being hit with Joker venom and he’s gone through the foster system, which left him a tad jaded, but not despondent. When he’s not fighting crime or discovering cool new power tricks, Duke writes poetry that expresses his feelings and conducts fun science experiments. Canonically, he’s an adrenaline junkie and fantasy nerd, and he’s not afraid to ask the important questions. He understands the current institutions are corrupt and he believes in the power of the people to fix it. If you’re searching for hope, look no farther than Duke Thomas.

Cullen lacks development in the comics, so I guess I’m extrapolating from the little we do know. Canonically, he’s a fan of Supernatural and loves manga/anime, so it’s not a far stretch to say that he probably listens to emo songs and has a Tumblr, and I bet a lot of us can relate to him. He’s hella gay and awkward around guys he likes. Cullen is not an active vigilante, but his input is valuable nonetheless. While his siblings are more ambitious, Cullen is the voice of reason that reminds them they’re only human and have their limits. He’s a little more introverted, likely because he was bullied in school. Cullen is not violent, but he’ll occasionally roll his eyes at people’s antics. Nonetheless, he hates seeing others get hurt and loves his siblings, because coming from a rough home, he knows the meaning of family. When you need an ear to listen and a shoulder to lean on, Cullen Row will be there.

Stephanie is loud, ambitious, and unafraid. She’s a bit of a foodie and loves her sweets, and she loves hanging out with her friends for some quality girl time. Steph is a bit tomboyish and loves heavy metal. Steph jumps headfirst into action even if she doesn’t have all the info, and she knows how to stand up for herself. She’s also really good at balancing responsibilities—she’s the only one who went to university while still being a vigilante. She is equally book smart and street smart, with razor-sharp instincts and close relationships that benefit her. She’s warm, empathetic, and compassionate; she rocks the color purple and loves a good party. She forms some especially close bonds with the other batgirls, and will stand by them in solidarity. Though she’s technically not an official batkid, she embraces the others like family and will tease them as a sister should. When your voice is lost in the crowd, Stephanie Brown will speak out for you.

Cassandra is a fighter in more ways than one. Oftentimes, fans mistake her as quiet and well-behaved—I admit, I’ve fallen prey to that too—and that largely derives from the stereotype that Asian girls should behave like that. However, Cass is just as rowdy, if not more, than the boys. She’s a gremlin who loves food, messes with siblings, and pops out in unexpected places. Cass is rightfully intimidating and is highly respected. It depends on the interpretation, but Cass is generally less verbal and prefers to communicate via sign language. She’s tough and resilient—she survived David Cain’s training, life on the streets, and now she’s a swift and cunning vigilante. Friends and family are very important to her, and she will do anything for those she loves. Canonically Cass loves Killswitch Engage, plus I think we can all agree that she rocks the color black. Don’t ever worry about facing the darkness alone, because Cassandra Cain will be right beside you.

Barbara is the home base. She is level headed, intelligent, down-to-earth, and a skilled coordinator. She’s an independent gal who takes life by the horns and doesn’t back down from a challenge. She’s a good communicator who naturally gets along with most people, and no matter where she goes she always has a friend. Barbara is funny, and she knows how to have a good laugh at herself. She is determined and knows how to work around any predicament. Babs values her friends and family, but knows when to stand up to them and do the right thing. Of all the Bats, Barbara is probably one of the most mature ones, with plenty of experience and wisdom to pass on to the rest. She also knows when to stick with the team versus when to branch out and has a secure sense of identity. Though she is the commissioner’s daughter, she actively fights the status quo and doesn’t let privilege get to her head. On days where you’re floating aimlessly, Barbara Gordon will be your anchor.

Harper is bold, inventive, and resourceful, and she deserves more canon rep than she’s currently getting. Growing up, her parents were deadbeats and she had to take over household duties at a young age—namely taking care of Cullen and fixing broken appliances. She is very protective of those she cares about, and if she can’t defend them, she will do whatever it takes to show that she’s standing by their side. Harper is canonically bisexual and defies gender roles in her appearance and actions (I bet she shops at Hot Topic). She’s a quick thinker and a master improviser who knows how to make more with less. Harper has a strong sense of justice, family, and friendship. That said, she’s also sarcastic and teases her siblings like a big sister should, and knows how to poke fun without striking any sensitive spots. She’s not as entwined in the Batfamily, but she still cemented her place with her bravery and intuition. Need a boost? Harper Row is your gal.

Carrie, similar to the Rows, lack canonical development, so once again I’m building from what I know. She is the bright, colorful, spunky wild child who single handedly balances out the grimdarkness of the Batfamily. (I elect to omit the Catgirl and the dark colors Batwoman canon). Carrie is fun-loving and knows how to liven up the party. She’s a pro at the slingshot and uses her Girl Scout knowledge to help others onto their feet. Carrie is loud and unafraid, and she jumps straight into the action. She’s a good actress and loves to toe the line when it comes to rule, bending but not quite breaking them. She’s funny, sassy, and an invaluable addition to any team. Carrie is not one to confine herself to old traditions, and if anyone is gonna shake up the scene, it’s her. Though she’s only thirteen, she has an air of maturity due to her neglectful parents, but she actively channels her past experiences into something positive and productive. To brighten up your day, call Carrie Kelley.

Kate is the infamous badass Batwoman, but it’s important to note that her role is the family extends beyond being another vigilante. As a military veteran, Kate has an atmosphere of discipline around her different from the rest of the Bats. She’s traveled the world, gained unique experiences, and has met people from all walks of life. Kate was openly lesbian at a time where acceptance was still low, but she refuses to be ashamed of who she is. Though her parents had their differences with Bruce’s, she’s been a supportive and empathetic cousin throughout their childhood. When it comes to romance, she’s stumbled a few times, but she refuses to let bumps in the road stop her. I think the quote that best describes her would be, “fall seven times, stand up eight”. Like Bruce, Kate is part of Gotham’s wealthy, and she channels her money to helping the less fortunate. She frequents nightclubs and puts on a socialite persona to cover up internal struggles. When you’re at the end of the road, Kate Kane will help you carry on.

Alfred is everybody’s favorite butler and grandfather figure, but he’s so much more than an idle servant. Being a former spy has equipped him with all the skills necessary to aid the Bats in their crusade of justice, and he knows everything from patching up injuries to piloting the bat-plane. Alfred’s seen it all, so he’s hardly fazed by what life throws at him. He tackles problems with decades of wisdom, and stays classy while doing so—kind of like that Parent Trap quote, “I have class and you don’t”. He has (realistically) high standards for himself and others, and he’s not afraid to call people out on their bull. Alfred is witty, sarcastic, and passive-aggressive, but he also has subtle yet hilarious sense of humor. He became a father figure to Bruce early on, and subsequently the grandfather to all the kids. He’s rational, reasonable, and compassionate, and he’s the ribbon that tied everyone together. Villains better watch out, because Alfred’s not a silent hostage, and in fact, one can argue that he’s more dangerous than Batman. At the end of the day, Alfred does what is best for his family and wants to see everyone happy. When the winter night settles in, Alfred Pennyworth will keep you warm.

Bruce is a wonderfully complex character and the people who just see him as a grimdark punch-drunk rich boy are missing out. In public, he puts on a charming Brucie persona that has everyone tripping over their feet to meet him. He’s not only a good businessman, but a generous philanthropist who uses his wealth and status to help others and keep the city afloat. The writers who portray Bruce as an angsty jerk who mistreats his kids are so very wrong. He cares about the children he takes in and knows how to tailor his parenting style to each individual. Though he’s lost a lot as a child, the Bruce we know today is grateful for all the people around him. As a hero, Bruce is a master tactician and, like his title suggests, the World’s Greatest Detective. Both Batman and Bruce Wayne are highly respected. Bruce has the “no killing” rule because he believes everyone deserves another chance—both a strength and a pitfall of his character. Though he’s not the best at expressing emotion, he cares deeply about those around him. The black cape doesn’t do justice to the light he brings to Gotham, and I think you’ll agree with me when I say Bruce isn’t the darkness, but rather the beacon that brings you home.

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