THE WATCHMEN by Alan Moore

THE WATCHMEN by Alan Moore

Moore, A., Gibbons, D., & Higgins, J. (2005). Watchmen. New York: DC Comics.

GENRE: Graphic Novel

ANNOTATION: Graphic novel format and superhero characters give insight into the darkest days of the cold war and with it, the darkest corners of the human heart. From pirate ship, to Antarctica, to the surface of Mars – everywhere reflects range of human nature.

SUMMARY: The violent death of Edward Black, retired crime fighter, causes his old friends to get back to work. Rorschach and Nite Owl start asking questions, but as masked heroes begin dying, one by one – their skills will be put to a final test. It soon becomes clear that the culprit is one of their own – the discovery of who, will unlock a scheme that will forever change the course of history.

EVALUATION: 5 - The story provides a set of true characters, sometimes contradictory, often irrational; but each with a potent perspective. The focus of morality and causality, through honest characters creates a modern morality dialogue. The setting of Cold War Era America, further emphasizes the often intractable nature of practical morality – best case solutions cannot account for irrational actors. Visually stunning and morally intriguing.

OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION: This book would be an excellent source for ethics discussions. Was also made into a movie in 2009.