Class #9

Discussion of parallels between the characters Zorro and Batman.
Key figures involved: Bob Kane (creator of Batman) and Bill Finger (co-creator).
Coincidence vs. Correlation: Importance of multiple coincidences in establishing connections.
Impact of influences from film and earlier characters on the development of Batman.

Character Traits:
- Don Diego, the alter ego of Zorro, is depicted as being wealthy and upper-class.
- Lacks interest in violence; described as tired and yawning often (up to 200 times a day).
- Possible explanations for his constant yawning: Insomnia due to his nocturnal activities as Zorro.
Relationships & Support Systems:
- Servant/assistant similar to Alfred from Batman; elderly man serving Don Diego.
- Don Diego’s interactions reveal deeper characteristics about his persona as Zorro.

First introduction of Zorro in Chapter 3.
- Zorro is first seen enveloped in a long dark cloak.
- Audience reactions to Zorro's entrance, indicating he inspires fear and respect.
Physical Description and Setting of Introduction:
- Cloak described as dark; initiates a dramatic presence.
- Fear and surprise expressed by various characters in the room during Zorro's appearance.

First interaction with Sergeant Gonzales:
- Formal bow upon introduction signals respect; sets tone for their future interactions.
- Zorro’s name: “Senior Zorro” indicates a formal and perhaps noble demeanor.
- His heavy use of polite language contrasts with Gonzales’ aggressive persona.
Ethical Stance:
- Zorro identifies himself as the “friend of the oppressed” and expresses intentions of punishing wrongdoing.
- Raises moral complexities surrounding vigilante justice and societal roles, noting he acts as judge, jury, and executioner.

Gonzales’ disbelief in Zorro’s intent:
- Dialogue between Zorro and Gonzales showcases class differences and Zorro's composure in the face of danger.
- Zorro’s refusal to utilize lethal force, emphasizing a moral code against killing.
Tactical Maneuvers in Combat:
- Zorro strategically positions himself in a gunpoint scenario, controlling the engagement while minimizing risk to himself.
- Use of sword vs. gun reflects Zorro’s character preference for honorable combat, though aware of necessity.

Gonzales’ underestimation of Zorro:
- Zorro views Gonzales as a symbol of oppressive power yet ultimately shifts the expectation of traditional confrontation.
- Displays strength, confidence, and tactical intellect during the duel.
- Gonzales’ drunken state leads to his vulnerability against Zorro’s discipline as a fighter.

Zorro’s agility and clever escape:
- Post-duel, Zorro escapes into the night; his ability to blend into the dark symbolizes his effectiveness.

Douglas Fairbanks’ adaptation of Zorro:
- Comparison between film and novel materials.
- Influence on films and the introduction of exaggerated physical expression due to silent film constraints.
- Details provide context to character relationships, dynamics, societal commentary on wealth distribution.

Hierarchical societal structure:
- Relationship between upper-class villains and the oppressed lower-class natives.
- Zorro symbolizing the fight against oppression through his character.