Why Batman Always Needs A Robin

One of the most beloved characters in comic books, is Dick Grayson.

Whether it's as Robin, Nightwing, Batman, or even Agent 37, the majority of readers forever find themselves gravitating towards Dick. If Grayson was just his own hero without any ties to the Bat, would there be the same interest in the character? Maybe, but maybe not.

Due to the fractious relationship that Dick and Bruce have had over the years, that's made Grayson such a more multi-layered, interesting character. Likewise, Jason Todd is another comic book favourite of many since returning from the grave over a decade ago.

If Todd was just another pissed off, gun-toting antihero, he'd for sure still have a legion of fans. But throwing in the resentment towards Batman for a) Jason's death, and b) not seeking clinical revenge on The Joker for said death, and there's again an added element of fascination and appeal to the Jason Todd character.

Tim Drake, who has for so many years been positioned as Batman-in-waiting in so many facets of his character, is yet another example of an adult hero whose years at the side of the Dark Knight have led to him becoming a hugely interesting and intriguing proposition - particularly when we've often seen Tim struggle with the notion that he is the one destined to be the true successor to Batman.

These characters could all be great characters if they hadn't have spent time at Batman's side, yet these three are all prime examples of how spending spells as Robin have led to them becoming much more multi-layered, at times flawed, characters whose arcs and adventures as adults are all the more must-read due to their history and relationship with Bruce Wayne.