The Joker’s origins have long been obscured by layers of mystery, with numerous theories proposed over time. However, the Absolute Universe appears to be emphasizing one of his most contentious origin modifications. While the Joker has consistently embodied twisted and unsettling traits, his character takes an even darker turn within this narrative framework.
In the Absolute Universe, significant alterations to various characters’ backstories are evident. Notably, Batman is no longer portrayed as a billionaire, with only one of his parents deceased. In a similar vein, the Joker experiences a profound transformation that leans heavily towards the macabre.
Fans first caught a glimpse of this chilling reinvention in Absolute Batman #6, authored by Scott Snyder and illustrated by Nick Dragotta. Although the preview is brief, it suggests that the Joker is attached to a contraption surrounded by deceased infants, seemingly siphoning their blood for his own purposes.
The Joker’s Alarming Transformation in the Absolute Universe: An Immortal Entity?
Absolute Batman by Scott Snyder, Nick Dragotta, Frank Martin, and Clayton Cowles
Insights into the Absolute Universe’s version of the Joker remain limited. However, it is clear that he possesses virtually limitless resources. The Joker now operates one of the largest corporations globally, controlling extensive holdings across various sectors including entertainment, military, and food. Contrasting sharply, Absolute Batman is depicted as having grown up in a modest, middle-class environment. Given his immense wealth, the Joker has access to nearly anything he desires—potentially even immortality.
Scott Snyder’s Past Reinterpretation of the Joker as an Ancient Entity
The New 52: A Bold New Take on the Joker by Snyder and Greg Capullo
The New 52 era of DC Comics stirred a mix of controversy due to its darker themes and significant character overhauls. The Joker was notably affected in this continuity reboot, with Snyder, alongside artist Greg Capullo, proposing a radical shift in the character’s origin—one that split fan opinion.
In this version, the Bat-Family uncovers the unsettling truth about the Joker: he was not merely a newcomer to Gotham City. Instead, he claimed to be the Pale Man, a being existing long before the city’s foundation and destined to endure long after its demise. This revelation was further underscored by James Gordon’s discovery of the Joker lurking in the background of his family photographs.
While the possibility of the Joker’s claim to immortality being a fabrication certainly exists—especially since Batman discovered the Dionesium the Joker was utilizing for regenerative purposes—this context does not preclude the notion of immortality in an alternate universe. The process of achieving immortality through Dionesium involves regularly injecting it into one’s spine to facilitate complete bodily regeneration, a practice deceptively simple and relatively painless. Nonetheless, the Absolute Universe diverges by introducing even more grotesque mechanisms for the Joker’s survival.
Could the Absolute Joker Explore Immortality Through Gory Means?
Access to Infinite Resources: The Joker’s Path to Immortality
Historically, the Joker has exhibited a penchant for repulsive antics, such as mutilating his own face to send a message to Batman. Additionally, he has resorted to lurking in unsanitary environments to ambush his victims. Given this background, Snyder’s decision to depict the Joker as literally harvesting the youth of infants through blood-draining is an audacious and unsettling evolution of his character.
One intriguing aspect of the Absolute Universe is its bold character developments while maintaining core essences. One notable symptom of blood loss is paleness. Hence, it’s plausible that the Joker’s gruesome practices of using infant blood are not solely for prolonging his youthful appearance but are necessary to preserve his human facade. The Joker’s trademark looks—green hair and white skin—emanate from his infamous dalliance with chemicals. With this wealth-driven alter ego, he would presumably have avoided such hazardous substances, possibly hinting at a condition requiring him to replenish his blood volume to maintain his appearance.
A Unique Version of the Joker: A True Monster Emerges
Dark Implications Surrounding the Joker’s Bizarre Baby Chair
The peculiar imagery of the baby chair featured in Absolute Batman #6 invites various interpretations. Does it imply that the Joker is an ancient entity drawing on the lifeblood of the innocent to sustain his existence? Alternatively, could he be afflicted with an ailment that taints his blood—prompting him to find replacements periodically? Perhaps Snyder and Dragotta are illustrating the ultra-wealthy Joker as a literal parasite, feeding off the youth for his personal gain. Each interpretation opens fascinating avenues for exploration.
Regardless of the analysis, it is undeniable that this iteration represents a significant evolution from the joker Snyder envisioned during the New 52. That former interpretation was among the darkest depictions of the character, and it appears that Snyder is intensifying this darkness in the Absolute Universe. Presently, Absolute Batman has triumphed over Black Mask and is gearing up to confront formidable foes like Mr. Freeze and Bane. However, it remains to be seen how Batman—and the audience—will confront this newest and most unsettling incarnation of the Joker.
Absolute Batman #6 is currently available from DC Comics!