Barbara Gordon (Oracle)/Dick Grayson (Nightwing) (Batman: DC Comics)
Title: Birds of a Feather
Author: faith_of_borg
E-mail: faith_of_borg@livejournal.com
Fandom: DC Comics
Pairing: Dick Grayson/Barbara Gordon (Oracle/Nightwing)
Spoilers: Up through Nightwing #101.
Notes: Many thanks go out to poisonivory for beta reading this essay, and for her extremely helpful suggestions.
Introduction
Dick Grayson, Robin, Nightwing. Barbara Gordon, Batgirl, Oracle. No matter the names, they are possibly one of the sanest couples in the DC Universe (even if sanity is considered a relative term for superheroes in the DC Universe). Their meeting on a rooftop one night may have purely been chance, but it left an impression upon the minds of both. Dick developed a crush on Barbara that went unrequited for years. Barbara may not have returned his feelings at first, but a friendship did develop. Over the years this turned into more.
Barbara Gordon/Oracle/Batgirl I
Barbara Gordon has an enthusiasm for life, even though that life has been a whirlwind of triumph and tragedy, as was foretold by Dr. Fate in Batgirl: Year One. She has always been a fiercely independent woman, one who never waits around to be rescued, but wants to be the rescuer herself. This and her love of adventure led to her long and iconic career as the first Batgirl.
Barbara is the niece and adopted (or possibly biological, as is hinted in Gotham Knights #6) daughter of Commissioner James Gordon, having been taken in by the Commissioner after both of her parents died in a car crash. An incredibly intelligent woman, she became the Head Librarian of Gotham City Public Library after graduating from college, due in part to an incredible photographic memory.
During this time, she created a Batgirl costume-not for crimefighting, but for a costume party. Once Killer Moth showed up to kidnap Bruce Wayne, however, Barbara was officially in her first battle as Batgirl. She continued her crusade as Batgirl for two reasons: 1) she wanted to help people, and 2) it was a fun adrenaline rush. Through her enthusiasm and dedication she gained Batman’s approval - and Robin’s attention.
After years of crime-fighting, Barbara decided to retire as Batgirl. Unfortunately, even retirement could not prevent the Joker shooting her in the doorway of her own home one night. Though she survived, she was paralyzed from the waist down, and would never walk again. Rather than wallow in self-pity or give up on life altogether, she decided to use her knowledge of computers to help other heroes. She joined Suicide Squad as an anonymous computer whiz, and took on the codename of Oracle. As time progressed, she became an invaluable gatherer of information for both the JLA and for Batman and his associates. Eventually she started her own team, which currently includes Black Canary, the Huntress, and, at times, the new Batgirl Cassandra Cain.
Through both time and tragedy she has evolved into a mature and confident young woman. As Oracle she has become an invaluable member of the superhero community, obtaining and distributing vital information with little time for rest. In a time of crisis, she can be counted on to keep a level head.
An excellent example of her courage and strength is this quote:
“Y’know, a lot of the time it’s like you Batguys want me to hold on to the past because you can’t get over it. Understand-I have. I have a new life now, one I like-one that fulfills me. It’s not the same one I had before. But it’s good. Maybe even better.” (Babs to Dick, in Birds of Prey #8.)
Dick Grayson/Nightwing/Robin I
Dick Grayson is the son of circus acrobats Mary and John Grayson. Together, the three of them were known as the Flying Graysons. Dick grew up performing in Haly’s Circus with his parents, and was a superb acrobat. One night, while his parents were performing on the trapeze, the rope broke, and they plummeted to their deaths. Dick was left alone in the world, until Bruce Wayne took him in as his ward. After discovering that Bruce Wayne was Batman, Dick became Robin, the Boy Wonder, and fought by Batman’s side for many years. Naturally a cheerful, carefree spirit, he leavened Batman’s gloom while proving himself not only to be a vital partner to the Dark Knight, but a great leader, taking charge of the Titans (and, as Nightwing, the Outsiders and even, briefly, the JLA, when the original team was thought dead).
After Dick was almost shot by the Joker, Batman made him resign as Robin. After a lot of soul searching and a discussion with Superman, Dick eventually took on the new identity of Nightwing. (There is another version where Dick quit on his own, and became Nightwing during the battle with H.I.V.E., but as this entire period is currently being retconned in Nightwing: Year One, we’ll have to wait for the dust to settle on that to get the latest, definitive version. Either way, Dick was Robin and is now Nightwing.)
As time has progressed, Nightwing has proven to be as great an ally for Batman as he was as Robin, even taking the mantle of the Bat when Batman was badly injured. More recently, he joined the police force of Bludhaven, Gotham’s even more corrupt neighbor, in an attempt to clean up the crooked policemen and bring back justice to the streets.
Despite being raised by Batman, Dick knows that he needs others to help him through times of crisis and people to love. Batman was often distant and never demonstrative throughout Dick’s childhood, and has only grown colder. In recent years, Dick has done his best to help make sure that the mantle of the Bat does not consume Bruce Wayne. Recently, Bruce showed that he loved Dick the only way he knew how - by legally adopting Dick as his son.
Currently, Nightwing is trying to find his place in life again, after things took a sinister turn with his nemesis Blockbuster. Blockbuster blew up both Dick’s apartment building and Haley’s Circus, killing most of Dick’s civilian loved ones. Things ended drastically when Dick’s sometime enemy, sometime ally Tarantula killed Blockbuster, leaving Dick to carry the guilt. Hopefully, he will not come to isolate himself from his loved ones as Batman has often done.
Despite Dick’s many flings (Titans teammate Starfire, whom he almost married, the Huntress, Tarantula, and almost his landlady Clancy), he has always carried a torch for Barbara. Huntress knew before Dick did (from the Huntress/Nightwing trade paperback). Another good example is this scene between Clancy and Dick. Even when he isn’t with Babs, he still thinks of her.
Comics
For those who aren’t familiar with the world of DC comics, in 1985 an attempt was made to simplify the DC “multiverse” by merging all of the many realities into one single universe in a massive crossover storyline called Crisis on Infinite Earths. Characters’ histories were entirely revamped and many ceased to exist entirely. Dick and Babs were not as affected as others, but their history pre- and post-Crisis is different enough to merit noting.
In pre-Crisis continuity, Robin and Batgirl met at that fated masquerade ball when Batgirl fought Killer Moth. The two junior crimefighters fought side by side for many years before learning each other’s secret identities, yet these secrets did nothing to deter their mutual attraction, the rampant flirting they engaged in, or the deep friendship they eventually formed.
Retroactively and Post-Crisis, Barbara Gordon first met Dick Grayson when he was garbed as Robin on the roof of Gotham City’s Police Headquarters, in Robin: Year One. They didn’t have anything resembling a relationship, however, until Barbara donned the cape and cowl for the masquerade ball. A smitten Dick immediately deduced her secret identity and stood up for her when Batman wanted to discourage her from pursuing the superhero life.
Whether Pre- or Post-Crisis, the mutual attraction, admiration, and affection Dick and Babara have for each other has always been evident.
Whether fighting for their lives or just enjoying each other’s company, they are at their best when they are by each other’s side. Reserved, serious Barbara steadies the flightier, impulsive Dick, and Dick gives her the unreserved, unconditional love she desperately needs. Dick Grayson and Barbara Gordon’s relationship may have its ups and downs, but they have survived through it all and the past perils merely strengthen them.
While the two of them have recently separated in the comics, it seems inevitable that they should return to each other’s arms. And the sooner the better.
Other Media
As there have been numerous movies, cartoons and television shows featuring Batman and his foes, one’s first exposure to this couple may not always be the comics. In fact, Barbara’s character was created for the original Batman series from the 1960’s. This Barbara Gordon, introduced in the episode “Enter Batgirl, Exit Penguin”, is the version that most people think of whenever they think of Batgirl. The most noticeable difference between the character in the comics and in the television show, was that television’s Barbara Gordon’s red hair was merely a wig. Despite that, and the fact that she did not have a photographic memory, she routinely gained the upper hand when it came to putting a hurt on the underworld.
The 90’s spawned the excellent cartoon series Batman: The Animated Series, and later Gotham Knights, also known as The New Batman Adventures. Dick and Babs shared the same flirtatious, will-they-or-won’t-they? relationship they had for so long in the comics. Others are more of an expert of these cartoons than I am, however.
Finally, the critic- and fan-hated 1997 movie Batman and Robin has another version of the Dick/Babs pairing. In this movie, Barbara (Alicia Silverstone) is Alfred’s niece, rather than Commissioner Gordon’s daughter. This (and her blonde hair) is the most noticeable difference. That coupled with the fact that she likes to race motorcycles in bad parts of town for fun is part of the reason why many do not enjoy this take on the character. Throughout the movie, Dick (Chris O’Donnell) and Barbara flirt with danger and with each other, while saving each other from certain death several times.
Why I Love This Couple
They are, quite possibly the healthiest relationships in the Batverse - although this is a relative term, since Bruce makes everyone seem healthier in comparison. Unlike Bruce, Dick does not let his past get in the way of a relationship. He does not dwell on his parent’s deaths. And Dick and Babs are one of the few couples in the superhero community who you can actually see getting married and settling down. This is largely due to the fact that they have a trusting, open relationship. They are able to communicate honestly with each other. They will not leave an issue to fester and destroy them.
What trade paperbacks feature this couple?
Currently, Nightwing and Oracle each star in their own books. Barbara can be found alongside Huntress and Black Canary as Oracle in Birds of Prey, while Dick can be found in the pages of Nightwing. Both are wonderful comics, and are highly recommended reading. If you are a new reader, now is the best time to join the comics as War Games just wrapped up in both Birds of Prey and Nightwing, and DC Comics is currently publishing a Year One story within the pages of the latter.
Batgirl: Year One: A flashback of the first meeting is shown between Barbara and Robin, on the roof of GCPD Headquarters. It shows Barbara becoming Batgirl, their growing friendship and a hint at the beginning of a romance.
Nightwing: The Hunt For Oracle: Blockbuster wants to find Oracle, and employs many assassins to find her. Nightwing refuses to betray her whereabouts even under torture. This also includes the first face-to-face meeting of Oracle and Black Canary.
Nightwing: A Darker Shade of Justice: After being seriously injured by villains at Blackgate Prison, Barbara nurses Nightwing back to health. Barbara explains why she needs time before she can be with Dick. Very touching.
Links
Fanfiction
There are a few sites out there devoted to the pairing of Dick and Barbara. Some of the best stories are usually located at dcfic_index.
The Romantic Machinations of Timmy the Elf
Video Symbiosis
There is also the wonderful archive called Birds of A Feather, which is devoted to the pairing.
While an RPG, jla_watchtower is home to many wonderful scenes between Nightwing and Oracle, and includes some of the best characterization of the two that I have seen in quite a while. Some of these can be found here.
LJ Groups
batfic
dcfic_index
Discussion Groups
Batgirl-Oracle has frequent discussions on the Nightwing/Oracle relationship.
General
The Batgirl/Oracle Site: Dick & Babs
Fanzing 30 Babs and Dick
Nightwing Bio: Short Pants
Titans Tower: Nightwing
Author: faith_of_borg
E-mail: faith_of_borg@livejournal.com
Fandom: DC Comics
Pairing: Dick Grayson/Barbara Gordon (Oracle/Nightwing)
Spoilers: Up through Nightwing #101.
Notes: Many thanks go out to poisonivory for beta reading this essay, and for her extremely helpful suggestions.
Introduction
Dick Grayson, Robin, Nightwing. Barbara Gordon, Batgirl, Oracle. No matter the names, they are possibly one of the sanest couples in the DC Universe (even if sanity is considered a relative term for superheroes in the DC Universe). Their meeting on a rooftop one night may have purely been chance, but it left an impression upon the minds of both. Dick developed a crush on Barbara that went unrequited for years. Barbara may not have returned his feelings at first, but a friendship did develop. Over the years this turned into more.
Barbara Gordon/Oracle/Batgirl I
Barbara Gordon has an enthusiasm for life, even though that life has been a whirlwind of triumph and tragedy, as was foretold by Dr. Fate in Batgirl: Year One. She has always been a fiercely independent woman, one who never waits around to be rescued, but wants to be the rescuer herself. This and her love of adventure led to her long and iconic career as the first Batgirl.
Barbara is the niece and adopted (or possibly biological, as is hinted in Gotham Knights #6) daughter of Commissioner James Gordon, having been taken in by the Commissioner after both of her parents died in a car crash. An incredibly intelligent woman, she became the Head Librarian of Gotham City Public Library after graduating from college, due in part to an incredible photographic memory.
During this time, she created a Batgirl costume-not for crimefighting, but for a costume party. Once Killer Moth showed up to kidnap Bruce Wayne, however, Barbara was officially in her first battle as Batgirl. She continued her crusade as Batgirl for two reasons: 1) she wanted to help people, and 2) it was a fun adrenaline rush. Through her enthusiasm and dedication she gained Batman’s approval - and Robin’s attention.
After years of crime-fighting, Barbara decided to retire as Batgirl. Unfortunately, even retirement could not prevent the Joker shooting her in the doorway of her own home one night. Though she survived, she was paralyzed from the waist down, and would never walk again. Rather than wallow in self-pity or give up on life altogether, she decided to use her knowledge of computers to help other heroes. She joined Suicide Squad as an anonymous computer whiz, and took on the codename of Oracle. As time progressed, she became an invaluable gatherer of information for both the JLA and for Batman and his associates. Eventually she started her own team, which currently includes Black Canary, the Huntress, and, at times, the new Batgirl Cassandra Cain.
Through both time and tragedy she has evolved into a mature and confident young woman. As Oracle she has become an invaluable member of the superhero community, obtaining and distributing vital information with little time for rest. In a time of crisis, she can be counted on to keep a level head.
An excellent example of her courage and strength is this quote:
“Y’know, a lot of the time it’s like you Batguys want me to hold on to the past because you can’t get over it. Understand-I have. I have a new life now, one I like-one that fulfills me. It’s not the same one I had before. But it’s good. Maybe even better.” (Babs to Dick, in Birds of Prey #8.)
Dick Grayson/Nightwing/Robin I
Dick Grayson is the son of circus acrobats Mary and John Grayson. Together, the three of them were known as the Flying Graysons. Dick grew up performing in Haly’s Circus with his parents, and was a superb acrobat. One night, while his parents were performing on the trapeze, the rope broke, and they plummeted to their deaths. Dick was left alone in the world, until Bruce Wayne took him in as his ward. After discovering that Bruce Wayne was Batman, Dick became Robin, the Boy Wonder, and fought by Batman’s side for many years. Naturally a cheerful, carefree spirit, he leavened Batman’s gloom while proving himself not only to be a vital partner to the Dark Knight, but a great leader, taking charge of the Titans (and, as Nightwing, the Outsiders and even, briefly, the JLA, when the original team was thought dead).
After Dick was almost shot by the Joker, Batman made him resign as Robin. After a lot of soul searching and a discussion with Superman, Dick eventually took on the new identity of Nightwing. (There is another version where Dick quit on his own, and became Nightwing during the battle with H.I.V.E., but as this entire period is currently being retconned in Nightwing: Year One, we’ll have to wait for the dust to settle on that to get the latest, definitive version. Either way, Dick was Robin and is now Nightwing.)
As time has progressed, Nightwing has proven to be as great an ally for Batman as he was as Robin, even taking the mantle of the Bat when Batman was badly injured. More recently, he joined the police force of Bludhaven, Gotham’s even more corrupt neighbor, in an attempt to clean up the crooked policemen and bring back justice to the streets.
Despite being raised by Batman, Dick knows that he needs others to help him through times of crisis and people to love. Batman was often distant and never demonstrative throughout Dick’s childhood, and has only grown colder. In recent years, Dick has done his best to help make sure that the mantle of the Bat does not consume Bruce Wayne. Recently, Bruce showed that he loved Dick the only way he knew how - by legally adopting Dick as his son.
Currently, Nightwing is trying to find his place in life again, after things took a sinister turn with his nemesis Blockbuster. Blockbuster blew up both Dick’s apartment building and Haley’s Circus, killing most of Dick’s civilian loved ones. Things ended drastically when Dick’s sometime enemy, sometime ally Tarantula killed Blockbuster, leaving Dick to carry the guilt. Hopefully, he will not come to isolate himself from his loved ones as Batman has often done.
Despite Dick’s many flings (Titans teammate Starfire, whom he almost married, the Huntress, Tarantula, and almost his landlady Clancy), he has always carried a torch for Barbara. Huntress knew before Dick did (from the Huntress/Nightwing trade paperback). Another good example is this scene between Clancy and Dick. Even when he isn’t with Babs, he still thinks of her.
Comics
For those who aren’t familiar with the world of DC comics, in 1985 an attempt was made to simplify the DC “multiverse” by merging all of the many realities into one single universe in a massive crossover storyline called Crisis on Infinite Earths. Characters’ histories were entirely revamped and many ceased to exist entirely. Dick and Babs were not as affected as others, but their history pre- and post-Crisis is different enough to merit noting.
In pre-Crisis continuity, Robin and Batgirl met at that fated masquerade ball when Batgirl fought Killer Moth. The two junior crimefighters fought side by side for many years before learning each other’s secret identities, yet these secrets did nothing to deter their mutual attraction, the rampant flirting they engaged in, or the deep friendship they eventually formed.
Retroactively and Post-Crisis, Barbara Gordon first met Dick Grayson when he was garbed as Robin on the roof of Gotham City’s Police Headquarters, in Robin: Year One. They didn’t have anything resembling a relationship, however, until Barbara donned the cape and cowl for the masquerade ball. A smitten Dick immediately deduced her secret identity and stood up for her when Batman wanted to discourage her from pursuing the superhero life.
Whether Pre- or Post-Crisis, the mutual attraction, admiration, and affection Dick and Babara have for each other has always been evident.
Whether fighting for their lives or just enjoying each other’s company, they are at their best when they are by each other’s side. Reserved, serious Barbara steadies the flightier, impulsive Dick, and Dick gives her the unreserved, unconditional love she desperately needs. Dick Grayson and Barbara Gordon’s relationship may have its ups and downs, but they have survived through it all and the past perils merely strengthen them.
While the two of them have recently separated in the comics, it seems inevitable that they should return to each other’s arms. And the sooner the better.
Other Media
As there have been numerous movies, cartoons and television shows featuring Batman and his foes, one’s first exposure to this couple may not always be the comics. In fact, Barbara’s character was created for the original Batman series from the 1960’s. This Barbara Gordon, introduced in the episode “Enter Batgirl, Exit Penguin”, is the version that most people think of whenever they think of Batgirl. The most noticeable difference between the character in the comics and in the television show, was that television’s Barbara Gordon’s red hair was merely a wig. Despite that, and the fact that she did not have a photographic memory, she routinely gained the upper hand when it came to putting a hurt on the underworld.
The 90’s spawned the excellent cartoon series Batman: The Animated Series, and later Gotham Knights, also known as The New Batman Adventures. Dick and Babs shared the same flirtatious, will-they-or-won’t-they? relationship they had for so long in the comics. Others are more of an expert of these cartoons than I am, however.
Finally, the critic- and fan-hated 1997 movie Batman and Robin has another version of the Dick/Babs pairing. In this movie, Barbara (Alicia Silverstone) is Alfred’s niece, rather than Commissioner Gordon’s daughter. This (and her blonde hair) is the most noticeable difference. That coupled with the fact that she likes to race motorcycles in bad parts of town for fun is part of the reason why many do not enjoy this take on the character. Throughout the movie, Dick (Chris O’Donnell) and Barbara flirt with danger and with each other, while saving each other from certain death several times.
Why I Love This Couple
They are, quite possibly the healthiest relationships in the Batverse - although this is a relative term, since Bruce makes everyone seem healthier in comparison. Unlike Bruce, Dick does not let his past get in the way of a relationship. He does not dwell on his parent’s deaths. And Dick and Babs are one of the few couples in the superhero community who you can actually see getting married and settling down. This is largely due to the fact that they have a trusting, open relationship. They are able to communicate honestly with each other. They will not leave an issue to fester and destroy them.
What trade paperbacks feature this couple?
Currently, Nightwing and Oracle each star in their own books. Barbara can be found alongside Huntress and Black Canary as Oracle in Birds of Prey, while Dick can be found in the pages of Nightwing. Both are wonderful comics, and are highly recommended reading. If you are a new reader, now is the best time to join the comics as War Games just wrapped up in both Birds of Prey and Nightwing, and DC Comics is currently publishing a Year One story within the pages of the latter.
Batgirl: Year One: A flashback of the first meeting is shown between Barbara and Robin, on the roof of GCPD Headquarters. It shows Barbara becoming Batgirl, their growing friendship and a hint at the beginning of a romance.
Nightwing: The Hunt For Oracle: Blockbuster wants to find Oracle, and employs many assassins to find her. Nightwing refuses to betray her whereabouts even under torture. This also includes the first face-to-face meeting of Oracle and Black Canary.
Nightwing: A Darker Shade of Justice: After being seriously injured by villains at Blackgate Prison, Barbara nurses Nightwing back to health. Barbara explains why she needs time before she can be with Dick. Very touching.
Links
Fanfiction
There are a few sites out there devoted to the pairing of Dick and Barbara. Some of the best stories are usually located at dcfic_index.
The Romantic Machinations of Timmy the Elf
Video Symbiosis
There is also the wonderful archive called Birds of A Feather, which is devoted to the pairing.
While an RPG, jla_watchtower is home to many wonderful scenes between Nightwing and Oracle, and includes some of the best characterization of the two that I have seen in quite a while. Some of these can be found here.
LJ Groups
batfic
dcfic_index
Discussion Groups
Batgirl-Oracle has frequent discussions on the Nightwing/Oracle relationship.
General
The Batgirl/Oracle Site: Dick & Babs
Fanzing 30 Babs and Dick
Nightwing Bio: Short Pants
Titans Tower: Nightwing