The emerald question master is easily one of Gothams most theatrical of villains; he has a flamboyant costume, he loves using extravagant traps and he cannot resist putting on a show while committing his criminal acts. All of these traits are traceable to an early inspiration for Edward Nigma; he had an intense fascination with Harry Houdini. The escapist and illusionists incredible feats are well documented, and DCs premier theatrical villain has shaped himself after this influential individual. Just look at some of the traps that The Riddler has set in one situation Batman faced death by drowning or electrocution if he touched the walls of the trap. As Batman is intelligent and always equipped with lifesaving gear he managed to escape, but it is undeniable that the idea of this sort of trap was not somehow influenced by the life of the Hungarian escape artist. The extravagant traps enable his victims a chance to escape, although the odds are invariably tilted in The Riddler's favour.