* Batman represents order, justice, and the law. He fights for a world where rules are upheld, criminals are punished, and society is safe.
* The Joker represents chaos, anarchy, and the absurd. He believes the world is inherently meaningless and strives to tear down all order and structure, reveling in the chaos he creates.
Their conflict is not simply about good versus evil, but about two opposing worldviews:
* Batman sees the Joker as a dangerous criminal who must be stopped. He believes the Joker's actions are motivated by malice and a desire for power.
* The Joker sees Batman as a rigid, obsessive figure who embodies the very system he seeks to destroy. He sees Batman's dedication to order as a form of hypocrisy, a futile attempt to impose meaning on a meaningless world.
Their relationship can be summarized as:
* The Joker is Batman's ultimate nemesis. He is the one enemy who truly understands Batman, who can challenge his beliefs, and who can consistently drive him to the brink.
* Batman is the Joker's obsession. He is the only one who can truly understand the Joker, who can challenge his nihilistic worldview, and who can provide him with the ultimate thrill of the chase.
The Joker's origin story also plays a role. While the exact details vary depending on the iteration, the Joker's descent into madness is often linked to a traumatic event or a perceived injustice. This fuels his hatred of order and his desire to bring down the world.
In conclusion, the Joker is Batman's enemy because they represent opposing philosophies and stand for diametrically opposed visions of the world. This fundamental conflict fuels their ongoing battle, making their relationship one of the most compelling and enduring in comic book history.