What is the significance of the 'grim and gritty' era in relation to DC Comics vigilantes?

The 'grim and gritty' era of DC Comics, particularly in the 1980s, significantly impacted the portrayal of vigilantes. Characters like Batman became darker, more cynical, and morally ambiguous. This trend shifted the focus from straightforward heroism to exploring the psychological toll of vigilantism and the cost of fighting crime. It popularized a more realistic and less idealistic depiction of superhero and vigilante narratives.