Introduction
In the Batman universe, Bruce Wayne/Batman and Selina Kyle/Catwoman have a complex relationship filled with romantic tension. Though they sometimes find themselves on opposite sides of the law, Batman and Catwoman also share an undeniable attraction. Their dance between romance and rivalry has spanned comic books, TV shows, and films for decades.
One of the key dynamics in their relationship is the recurring question of consummation. Will Batman allow himself to get intimately involved with Catwoman, the notorious cat burglar, or will he keep her at arm’s length? Their chemistry leads to constant speculation about whether or not they ever sleep together.
Exploring the potential consequences if Batman and Catwoman do not become intimate adds another interesting layer to their complicated bond. Looking at how their characters might respond provides insight into their motivations and feelings for one another.
Batman’s Reaction
If Batman were to reject Catwoman’s advances, he would likely respond stoically and feel conflicted internally. As a brooding, obsessive hero focused on his mission, Batman often suppresses deeper emotions and vulnerabilities. According to one analysis, Batman has a very serious and dark persona compared to his alter ego Bruce Wayne [1]. So while rejecting Catwoman may align with his determination to fight crime at all costs, it could also mean missing an opportunity for intimacy and romantic fulfillment outside his dangerous nightlife activities. Batman struggles with isolation and darkness, so he may feel regret or sadness at pushing away a potential romantic partner [2]. However, he would likely see it as necessary to maintain focus and not compromise his duties. Overall, Batman would aim to move past any personal feelings and stay true to his tireless mission.
Catwoman’s Reaction
Catwoman is known for having a fiery, defiant personality and a complicated love/hate relationship with Batman, as described in this analysis of Catwoman’s personality over time. If Batman were to refuse intimacy with her, Catwoman would likely feel rejected and lash out in anger or withdraw in hurt. According to her characterization, she wants to feel desired by Batman and him refusing her advances could damage her ego and self-image.
As an independent woman who follows her own moral code, Catwoman also prizes her freedom and agency in relationships, so she would not take kindly to Batman making unilateral decisions about intimacy between them. There is a power dynamic inherent in their relationship that could lead to resentment if Batman asserts too much control. While she may act nonchalant at first, deep down Catwoman would be upset at this denial of intimacy from the man she loves.
Impact on Their Relationship
Deciding against being intimate could significantly impact the dynamic between Batman and Catwoman. On one hand, it preserves the simmering romantic tension between them. Their flirtatious banter and stolen glances maintain the exhilarating possibility that they might give in to their desires. This unresolved passion fuels their charged encounters.
However, refusing intimacy also represents a missed chance to explore their bond on a deeper level. Physical intimacy often leads to emotional intimacy as walls come down. By denying themselves this experience, Batman and Catwoman miss an opportunity to truly understand each other. A strong mutual understanding could enrich their relationship and allow them to connect beyond surface-level flirtation.
Additionally, declining intimacy may breed resentment between the two over time. Catwoman may feel rejected and hurt if Batman continually refuses to take their relationship to the next level. Batman may grow frustrated with Catwoman’s advances and demands. This could damage their rapport and cooperation, undermining the trust they’ve built.
Overall, while postponing physical intimacy preserves intrigue, it also prevents Batman and Catwoman from strengthening their romantic bond. Their patience may be rewarded later if they finally give in to their passion, but the wait could also strain their dynamic.
Missed Opportunity for Character Growth
By choosing not to develop a deeper romantic relationship between Batman and Catwoman, there was a missed opportunity for significant character growth for both of them. Romantic relationships in stories often serve as catalysts for internal change and evolution. According to this article, “The best character relationships are usually those that prompt significant growth for one or both characters.”
A romantic relationship could have pushed Batman to open up emotionally and confront his inner pain and trauma. It may have led him to rediscover his humanity and capacity for love. For Catwoman, it could have challenged her worldview and criminal lifestyle, prompting an identity crisis and motivation to reform. By keeping their dynamic strictly professional, neither character was forced to confront their deeper issues and evolve. The chance to tell an impactful story of mutual growth and redemption through romance was unfortunately missed.
Alternate Storyline Possibilities
One story archetype is the ‘love story’ (The Nine Basic Plots). By not sleeping with Catwoman, the expected romance arc between Batman and Catwoman could be altered. If their intimate encounter doesn’t happen, there may not be the spark that pushes their relationship forward. This could lead to more tension and conflict between the two characters, as the unresolved sexual attraction continues to build. Without the release of consummating their relationship, Batman may become more withdrawn while Catwoman grows more reckless trying to get his attention.
Another possibility is that Catwoman feels rejected after Batman refuses her advances. This could cause her to retreat back into criminality out of spite or sadness. She may try to make Batman jealous by pursuing other romantic relationships. Alternatively, the rejection could soften Catwoman, inspiring her to want to become a better person who is worthy of Batman’s love. She may try to prove herself by helping Batman take down dangerous villains.
Overall the storyline would likely become more fraught with romantic tension and angst. The audience may be left wondering if Batman and Catwoman will ever be able to resolve the strong attraction between them. Fans who want to see the relationship consummated may feel disappointed (Variations on Story Structure: A List). But the anticipation could also add excitement to see if they eventually come together down the line.
Fan Reaction
Fans of the Batman franchise would likely have mixed reactions if Batman did not sleep with Catwoman as expected in the storyline. Many fans ship the characters and would be disappointed that their romantic relationship did not progress further. As one Reddit user commented, “I was really looking forward to seeing Batman and Catwoman get together. It’s something fans have wanted for awhile.” [1]
However, some fans may appreciate the restraint and focus on character development rather than physical intimacy. As noted in a YouTube discussion, “I like that they’re taking it slowly and building up the emotional connection first. It feels more meaningful.” [2] There could also be debate within the fandom about whether it was the right creative decision. Ultimately though, many fans would likely still see the movie and continue to engage with the franchise.
While an unfulfilled storyline expectation could initially disappoint some fans, the overall fan reaction would depend on how well the storyline progresses without the expected development. If done effectively, fans may come to appreciate the alternate narrative. The fandom would continue to thrive with spirited discussion and debate around the creative choices.
Impact on Batman’s Mission
Batman’s primary mission is to fight crime in Gotham City. His intense dedication to crime-fighting often leads to isolation and loneliness.
Catwoman represents one of Batman’s few romantic connections. As a morally ambiguous thief, she also challenges Batman’s strict moral code against killing and crime. Their dance between romance and being adversaries creates an ongoing tension.
If Batman and Catwoman never become intimate, it could strengthen his resolve and focus against developing personal relationships. However, it could also leave him more isolated, bitter, and alone in his mission.
Catwoman provides one of Batman’s only connections to his human side. Without her, he may double down on his vigilante mission at the expense of his civilian alter-ego Bruce Wayne. Alternatively, the constant sexual tension with Catwoman serves to distract and undermine his crime fighting resolve.
Overall, Catwoman represents a moral gray area that tests Batman’s dedication. Not giving in to romance allows him to maintain his values, but also risks making him more of a reclusive obsessive. Their unconsummated relationship provides ongoing creative tension.
Maintaining Sexual Tension
One of the most compelling aspects of the relationship between Batman and Catwoman is the simmering sexual tension that is never fully resolved between the two characters. Many fans find the constant ‘will they or won’t they’ dynamic to be engaging and enjoyable to follow across the Batman stories. As discussed in this analysis from The Table Read Magazine, unresolved romantic tension is a useful narrative technique in fiction that helps build anticipation and interest (Examples Of Unresolved Sexual Tension In Fiction, And How To Replicate Them). By having Batman and Catwoman continuously dance around their obvious mutual desire without ever fully acting upon those feelings, it allows writers to continuously play with the idea of forbidden love and plant seeds of anticipation for readers.
Conclusion
Despite what would have seemed like a natural progression in Batman and Catwoman’s relationship, the decision to not have them become intimate preserves the classic tension between the characters. Their ongoing dance maintains the core dynamic that has enthralled fans for decades. While an actual romance may provide temporary intrigue, not crossing that threshold allows for endless possibilities to explore their unconsummated attraction across various storylines. Their restraint and separation, driven by their opposing moral codes, is central to the mythology. Ultimately, Batman’s dedication to his mission must come before any personal fulfillment. Their unrealized passions will continue to fuel their encounters as adversaries, allies and soulmates.