Batman #189: Fright of the Scarecrow

Quick answer

Batman #189: Fright of the Scarecrow stands out in Gotham Vault because the issue title, character tags, and 1967-02-28 cover date create a distinct entry point into Batman. Readers can use it to jump from this issue into Alfred Pennyworth, Batman, Nightwing (Dick Grayson), Jeremy T. Fall and related Batman continuity.

Issue summary

The first appearance of Scarecrow in the Silver Age! How will Batman survive his greatest fears? The Scarecrow's origin is retold. Psychology Professor Jonathan Crane, motivated by the derision of his peers, takes inspiration from fear based protection rackets and crafts a masked identity for himself, the Scarecrow. Using scare tactics, Crane will garner the money he needs to command respect from his critics. On a playground in Gotham Park, Dick Grayson is instructing local youths in proper exercise. Spying a miniature submarine cruising up Gotham River, Grayson tells the boys to take a lunch break. Grayson trails the submarine, taking cover when it surfaces. To Grayson's astonishment, the Scarecrow disembarks the vessel. At that moment, Bruce Wayne, and his faithful manservant Alfred, arrive, bringing ice cream treats for Grayson's charges. Grayson brings Wayne up to speed, then they both don their costumes. The Caper Crusaders catch up with the Scarecrow, and his men, further inland, where the Strawman Scoundrel is busy recovering hidden loot from a previous robbery. Batman punches the Scarecrow into the ground. Robin then pushes Batman down, too, to avoid a hail of gunfire. While the Dynamic Duo battle against the Scarecrow's gunsels, the Scarecrow recovers, and activates a chemical sprayer onboard the submarine. Batman and Robin are bathed in hallucinogenic chemicals,…

Characters listed for this issue

Alfred PennyworthThe man who raised Batman. Ex-SAS, current butler, permanent father figure. The only one who…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

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BatmanOpen this Gotham Vault character file to see linked appearances, story arcs, and related com…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

Nightwing (Dick Grayson)The first Robin, all grown up. Acrobat, detective, leader. The best of Batman without the da…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

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Jeremy T. FallOpen this Gotham Vault character file to see linked appearances, story arcs, and related com…VIEW APPEARANCES ›

Scarecrow (Jonathan Crane)Dr. Jonathan Crane weaponizes fear itself with his trademark toxin. Your worst nightmare, bo…VIEW APPEARANCES ›