Why Persona 5's Joker Wears Fake Glasses, Explained (2024)

Persona 5's protagonist wears many masks over the course of Atlus' JRPG epic, but his most important disguise is also the most innocuous.

Why Persona 5's Joker Wears Fake Glasses, Explained (1)

Persona 5andPersona 5 Royalare deep games laden with multiple layers of meaning and symbolism that are easy to overlook, especially when the details hide in plain sight. There are many compelling plotlines hidden in Joker's unnecessary eyewear as one such point of nuance, as they seem to come and go without apparent rhyme or reason. Butthe Persona 5protagonist'ssimple black frames hide tremendous significance, deftly uniting the game'sthemes of thievery and cognitive exploration.

While Persona 5avoids spelling out the secrets for itsnumerousplots, sometimes the obvious answersare the correct ones, and Joker'sglasses are a subtle but transparent metaphor for a mask.Even if that symbolism seems on the nose, there is asurprising amount of depth beneath the mask, especially if oneexamines the broader significance of masks in the Persona franchise as a whole.

RELATED: Persona 6 or Persona 5 Sequel: Which Is Next?

Are Joker's Glasses Fake?

Why Persona 5's Joker Wears Fake Glasses, Explained (2)

First, it is important tosettle the debate over whetherhis glasses are real or fake. Some fans have speculated that Joker's glasses are for far-sightedness, which would account for their absence when he watches the fireworks festival with the other Phantom Thieves. However, Royal's content lays the glassesissueto rest with an observation from Morgana in Kichijojithat identifies his specs as spurious.It is also worth noting that the glasses shop is titled "Two Windows" which is likely an allusion to the biblical phrase, "the eyes are windows to the soul."

The inspiration behind Joker's new look probationary look is easy enough to parse. Joker knows that he will be singled out as a problem child as soonas he is convicted of Shido's assault,long before Sojiro and Kawakamistart lecturing him about toeing the line. So he chooses an accessorystereotypically associated with scholarly, non-physical, and mild-mannered people, like a certain reporter for the Daily Planet. Even though Clark Kent's glasses are often maligned as a flimsy disguiseand may not plausibly guard a secret identity, they inevitably influence first-impressions.

The Persona series is heavily influenced by the works of Swiss Psychologist Carl Jung, who employs the terms "Persona" and "Shadow" with specific philosophical meanings in his writing. Jung's personas are essentially the self people present to society. While this term is chiefly employed to describe one's mental self-image, it can be extended to account for every aspect of a person's presentation, including mannerisms, vocabulary, general attitude, and apparel. Even incidental circ*mstances like zodiac signs can become part of a persona whena person emphasizes it as part of their identity.

Joker's Fake Glasses and His True Self

Why Persona 5's Joker Wears Fake Glasses, Explained (3)

In addition to making an impression, however, Jungian personas are also disguisesintended to occlude aspects of a personality that people are ashamed of. By masking his impulsive, passionate self behind a normal pair of glasses, Joker prevents people from seeing his true self, or at least makes it more difficult for them to square his appearance with the rumors about his delinquency.The thing that makes Joker and otherPersona protagonists members of the Fool Arcana—and ideal Arcane Tricksters—is that they are capable of developing a variety of personas to suit their current situation, much like a master thief or conman adopting different roles during a heist.

When unmasked, Joker is at the height of his power,but he is also at his most vulnerable.Whileimprisoned in the Velvet Room, he is without glasses and at the mercy of Igor and the wardens. The same is true when he is being interrogated by Sae. When Joker watches fireworks with his friends,it represents him lowering his guard and allowing them to see his true self. On the other hand,Joker removes his mask when performing special attacks with his various personas, as if the mask wouldfetter his pent up rage. Joker also surrenders to his heart's truest impulse when aiding Shido's victim before recognizing the dangers of life without a mask. That initial act of strength and vulnerability is whatsets him on the journey that ultimately turns him into a hero.

RELATED:Persona 5: Can Morgana Turn Human? & 9 Other Things You Didn't Know About Mona

This odd risk/reward dynamic hints at an underlying philosophy of the Persona franchise. The Phantom Thieves and Joker become masks for the players themselves, suggesting that most of the time, it is important to guardone's true self with a filter against the consequences of society's ceaseless, knee-jerk judgments. But the moments that catalyze true growth, whether they are acts of vulnerability or tremendous strength,happen on those rare occasions when the mask comes off.

Persona 5 Joker vs Futaba vs Goro

Why Persona 5's Joker Wears Fake Glasses, Explained (4)

One of the most nuanced distinctions in the game is illustrated by the contrasting functions ofJoker and Futaba'sglasses' lenses.Since Futaba actually requires glasses to see clearly, they can be considered a part of her true self,while her own figurative "mask" manifests as her online persona, Alibaba. The fact that Joker's glasses do not alter his sight in anyway also distinguishes themfrom the glasses donned by the cast of Persona 4, which are much more colorful and characterful, serving as lenses of truth in that game's televised cognitive realm.

The glasses-as-mask metaphor also factors into the game's meditations on fame and popularity, acting as a point of contrast between Joker and Goro Akechi. While Joker is repeatedly instructed to keep a low profile and wears glasses to help accomplish this, Goro is a budding celebrity, with an empty personality that has been meticulously groomed for television interviews and social media soundbites. His noble, Detective Prince persona is itself a mask of course, imposed on the world through frequent broadcasts, which makes him the perfect foilfor Joker and a divisive character among the Persona fandom.

Persona 5'sfinal act digs deep into the dualistic perils of popularity, and the heroes reach their nadir as they start tobecome seduced bythe Phantom Thieves' growing fame. Though it may sound trite, the masks start wearing them, rather than the other way around. For all the characters, there is a razor thin margin between acclaim and infamy, and the distinction between them is as fickle as a coin flip. It is fitting, therefore, that when the Thieves achieve their final victory, their cognitive masks are upraised, revealing genuine joy and triumph.

Persona 5isavailable now for PlayStation 4.

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Why Persona 5's Joker Wears Fake Glasses, Explained (2024)

FAQs

Why Persona 5's Joker Wears Fake Glasses, Explained? ›

By masking his impulsive, passionate self behind a normal pair of glasses, Joker

Joker
Joker is the protagonist of Persona 5, a 2016 role-playing video game by Atlus. He is a second-year high school student who gets expelled due to a false accusation of assault from a corrupt politician. As a result, he leaves his hometown and moves in with a family friend in Tokyo to serve a one-year probation.
https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Joker_(Persona)
prevents people from seeing his true self, or at least makes it more difficult for them to square his appearance with the rumors about his delinquency.

Are Ren's glasses real in Persona 5? ›

In Persona 5 Royal, Morgana outright confirms that Ren wears fake glasses when he tries to interact with a store called "two windows" in Kichijoji.

Why does Joker not talk in Persona 5? ›

5 He Barely Replies In The Group Chat

Apparently it's just a quirk of Joker's to never actually bother answering his friends unless he's specifically going to go hang out with them. They never seem deterred by it, at least — the invites just keep coming.

Does Joker ever talk? ›

Despite primarily being a silent protagonist, Joker occasionally speaks short phrases during cutscenes and battles; being voiced in Japanese by Jun f*ckuyama and in English by Xander Mobus.

What does Joker wear in Persona 5? ›

The Phantom Thieves costume consists of a long black tailcoat with a high-neck waistcoat underneath and black pants. A pair of red gloves, black boots, and the black and white domino mask completes the full Joker cosplay set.

Who is Joker's canon girlfriend? ›

Kasumi met Joker, fell in love with him, and became Sumire.

Why are Joker's glasses fake? ›

Others have suggested that they're his metaphorical "mask" in the real world, mirroring the black-and-white mask he wears as a Phantom Thief. No matter the reason, at least we now have confirmation, thanks to Morgana, that Joker's glasses are merely a fashion accessory.

Why is Joker's face cut off? ›

When the Joker became obsessing over destroying the Bat-Family, he decided to arrange for his face to be surgically removed. According to the Joker, he did this to symbolize how even without his, "Mask" he was still the joker where-as Batman's Robins and Bat-Girls' identities were only mask-deep.

Can Joker date Futaba? ›

One romance option available to players is Futaba Sakura. This tech wiz is as adorable as she is awkward. Those interested in pairing her with Joker should take these tips to heart, as the Oracle of the Phantom Thieves has her own set of requirements for romantic pursuit.

Who is Joker's crush? ›

In 1994, Batman: The Animated Series creators Paul Dini and Bruce Timm wrote a comic that revealed how Quinn became The Joker's girlfriend.

Was Joker autistic? ›

Joker was not autistic, because he seemed to deeply desire social connection (most of his fantasies were surrounding connecting with others).

Who is the oldest Joker? ›

Cesar Romero / The Batman Series (1966)

The original Joker, Cesar Romero, was known for his acting and singing skills well before playing the iconic character in the first of the caped vigilante films, Batman: The Movie (1966).

Why is Joker smiling? ›

On the surface, this Joker wants to look “happy.” That's what he's told he's supposed to be. And, his uncontrollable laughing condition is because of how he's been forced to control his anger and sadness; to “stuff it” deep down inside.

Are Joker's glasses fake? ›

Joker's Fake Glasses and His True Self

By masking his impulsive, passionate self behind a normal pair of glasses, Joker prevents people from seeing his true self, or at least makes it more difficult for them to square his appearance with the rumors about his delinquency.

What is Joker's secret? ›

It is then revealed that the Joker's real name is “Jack Oswald White.” Martha then shares that she visited the Flashpoint universe's version of Jack Oswald White, discovering him to be a struggling family man supporting his wife and a child as a janitor at Wayne Casino.

Is the Joker's lipstick blood? ›

First Appearance

The Joker is an insane, homicidal supervillain, and the arch nemesis of Batman. His white skin, green hair and blood red lips belied the chaotic nature that underlay his cartoonish appearance.

What happens if you date multiple girls in Persona 5? ›

Choosing to date multiple girls at once will actually net you a bonus scene at the end of Persona 5. On Valentine's Day, your girlfriend (or girlfriends) will invite you to spend time with them. Hanging out with one of them will net you a special SP chocolate.

Who does Joker fall in love with Persona 5? ›

4 Love: Joker & Hifumi Togo

Joker takes it upon himself to target Hifumi's mother so that the young girl can fulfill her dream properly. Afterward, he even admits to Hifumi that is a phantom thief, further proving how much they trust each other.

Does Ryuji have a crush on Ann? ›

Ryuji had shown interest to Ann on various occasions and making lewd gestures such as staring at her sweat-drenched chest on the way to Futaba's Palace, gawking at her exposed legs while squeezing the water off her yukata after it got drenched by rain during the fireworks festival, and showing the desire to squeeze her ...

Why is Joker's face always white? ›

The most common story involves him falling into a tank of chemical waste that bleaches his skin white and turns his hair green and lips bright red; the resulting disfigurement drives him insane. The antithesis of Batman in personality and appearance, the Joker is considered by critics to be his perfect adversary.

Is the Joker's face Deformed? ›

"It's like Phantom of the Opera. He has a congenital disease where he can't stop smiling, and it's horrific. His face is half-covered throughout most of the film.

Why did Joker lose his eye? ›

But before he can do so, a gunshot interrupts the fight -- and Joker gets hit right in the face. The shot actually comes from Harley Quinn who, in Batman #99, showed that she was willing to put the Joker down -- permanently. Her shot doesn't kill Joker, but it does take out his right eye, and it's no accident.

What is the Joker's real name? ›

Jack Napier, also known as the Joker, is a fictional character introduced in the 1989 superhero film Batman, directed by Tim Burton. Primarily portrayed by Jack Nicholson, the character was based on the DC Comics supervillain the Joker.

How did Joker lose his teeth? ›

In an interview with Empire, Ayer noted that while Joker's tattoo is sort of a "personal thing" and not necessarily part of an overarching connection, it originates from when Batman smashes out Joker's teeth and locks him away in Arkham Asylum after discovering that he murdered Robin.

Why does Joker lick his lips? ›

In an interview the actor himself revealed that it is not any of the traits of Joker but rather the prosthetic scar he had on his lips would often get loose due to which he secured the make up by constantly licking his lips.

Is Futaba autistic? ›

While she is not explicitly autistic, social media websites like tumblr tend to interpret Futaba as having the condition. This is somewhat supported by the performance given by her English actress Erica Lindbeck, who has stated that she tried to portray Futaba as if she were on the spectrum.

Who is the canon romance in Persona 5? ›

Makoto is considered a queen by her fans. Fans who like her, REALLY like her, and even consider her to be the canon romance of the game. She also is relatively easy to romance and is incredibly plot-relevant.

Is Akechi in love with Joker? ›

It's a love confession: Akechi's life isn't "trivial" to Joker because he loves him.

Who is Joker married to? ›

Harley Quinn and Jack Napier have been through quite a lot during their time together, and wedding [...]

Who was Joker's first love? ›

In the 1989 Batman movie, the Joker had a girlfriend by the name of Alicia. Alicia was the trophy wife of the Joker's former boss, but she cheated on him with the pre-disfigured Joker, then known as Jack Napier. After becoming the Joker, his appearance frightened her so badly she fainted.

Has there ever been a female Joker? ›

A female version of the Joker appeared as part of DC's Tangent Comics line in her own one-shots (Tangent Comics: The Joker #1 in 1997 and Tangent Comics: The Joker's Wild! #1 in 1998). This Joker bore little resemblance to the traditional interpretation of the character and instead was modeled on Duela Dent.

What does Joker suffer from? ›

Antisocial personality disorder

At the same time, as I have stated, Arthur has the symptoms of psychopathy. Although psychopathy is not among the ten official personality disorders listed in DSM-5, it is well recognised as a variant of antisocial personality disorder (301.7, according to DSM-5).

Is Joker's illness real? ›

Fleck (aka the Joker) did indeed suffer from PBA. That said, however, Hollywood definitely embellished his presentation. For example, his hyperbolic ballet dance after a trauma would not seem to be explained solely or at all by PBA.

What illness does the Joker smile have? ›

According to the Mayo Clinic, "Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) is a condition that's characterized by episodes of sudden uncontrollable and inappropriate laughing or crying." Echoing the language on the Joker's laminated card, PBA can indeed occur in people with brain injuries, stroke, or certain neurological conditions such ...

Who killed Joker first? ›

Everything was here in his first story, from his iconic purple suit, to his poisonous Joker Venom, to his appetite for murder. It was a man named Henry Claridge who had the honor of being the Joker's first kill, which the Clown Prince followed by murdering three more people all in the same story.

What is the age limit for Joker? ›

Is it for kids? No. The MPAA rated “Joker” R for “strong bloody violence, disturbing behavior, language and brief sexual image,” and that makes it a “hard R.” The violence is extremely graphic, and an air of anger and isolation swirls around the film.

How old was the Joker when he died? ›

Heath Ledger
BornHeath Andrew Ledger4 April 1979 Perth, Western Australia, Australia
Died22 January 2008 (aged 28) New York City, U.S.
Cause of deathAcute combined drug intoxication (oxycodone, hydrocodone, diazepam, temazepam, alprazolam, doxylamine)
Resting placeKarrakatta Cemetery, Perth
8 more rows

How did the Joker get pregnant? ›

Believe it or not, this tale saw the Clown Prince of Crime himself become pregnant and give birth to a child. The mother of the child? That was none other than DC's famous magical hero Zatanna, who cast a spell on the Joker after he tried to persuade her to start a family with him.

Why do girls find the Joker attractive? ›

As discussed above, everyone has an id, and the Joker represents the id in its purest most primal form; he is the walking incarnation of our basest fears, desires, emotions, rage, wants, needs, and passion. Many people look at the Joker and see the unbridled chaos of the id, and this is attractive to them.

Why does Joker love purple? ›

So, on a surface level, purple is telling us that the villain wearing it is both ambitious and connected with death. The color purple has traditionally been used to convey everything from sensuality to creativity, extravagance, immaturity and madness.

Are fake glasses OK? ›

Fake glasses do not hurt your eyes. Extensive use of a pair of non-prescription lenses is virtually the same as looking through a clear window — perfectly normal and healthy. So don't worry!

Are fake glasses safe? ›

One big question everyone asks: Will wearing fake glasses hurt your eyes? You're just looking through glass or plastic (or nothing at all), so no, fake glasses won't harm your vision.

What are fake glasses called? ›

Fashion glasses, also called “fake glasses” or “non-prescription glasses”, are glasses with clear prescriptionless lenses. Fashion glasses are typically chosen for unique features and high-quality materials. Consider choosing fashion glasses that pair well with your natural warm and cool color preferences.

What's the Joker's weakness? ›

Arguably the Joker's greatest weakness is his ego, however. He turns to crime to get the attention he desperately craves from Batman.

Why does Joker locked himself in the fridge? ›

1) It's to show how escape has become hard for Arthur. He wants to shut himself away from the world completely, and the fridge provides a quick and easy way to do just that, but only temporarily. 2.) Metaphorically Gotham is presented to us as a cold place, in which whatever the character does he's punished for.

Who is Joker's real dad? ›

Image via Warner Bros. Key to Arthur's spiral is new information he learns from his mother Penny (Frances Conroy), with whom he lives. Arthur finds a letter Penny has written to Thomas Wayne, claiming that Wayne is Arthur's real father.

Is Joker's skin permanently white? ›

His White Skin Isn't Makeup

However, while all the details of Joker's origin story remain a mystery, it is generally accepted in the DC universe that the character's skin, "lipstick," and even his green hair are all permanent, the result of some sort of chemical-related accident.

Are Jokers red or black? ›

At times, the Jokers will each be colored to match the colors used for suits; e.g., there will be a red Joker and a black Joker. In games where the Jokers may need to be compared, the red, full-color, or larger-graphic Joker usually outranks the black, monochrome, or smaller-graphic one.

Why doesn't the Joker have a red nose? ›

His face is indeed white like clowns' faces, but this is because he literally fell into a vat of acid, while real clowns (and the Red Triangle Gang) use face paint. He eschews the clown color scheme and doesn't wear a frilly collar or red nose, instead opting for a sleek purple and green suit.

Does Joker have fake glasses in Persona 5? ›

Joker's Fake Glasses and His True Self

By masking his impulsive, passionate self behind a normal pair of glasses, Joker prevents people from seeing his true self, or at least makes it more difficult for them to square his appearance with the rumors about his delinquency.

Is Ren Amamiya straight? ›

Today's MLM character is Ren Amamiya / Joker from Persona 5! He is Bisexual! MLM Character of the Day!

Is Raoul Joker's true Persona? ›

Answer: Raoul is another ultimate Persona and is considered the ultimate version of Joker's signature Persona, Arsene. Though Satanael is seen initially as that, Persona 5 Royal changes it to Raoul.

Is it Ren Amamiya or Akira Kurusu Persona 5? ›

Question: Are Ren Amamiya and Akira Kurusu, the Same Person? Answer: Yes, Ren Amamiya and Akira Kurusu are the same people. They both are possible names to represent Joker, the main character of Persona 5.

Was the Joker just imagining everything? ›

The Joker movie makes it clear that not all of the events we see are real and that much of the action is imagined or hallucinated. It is never made apparent, however, just what events might be real, giving rise to the possibility that nothing we've seen actually happened and that the whole film is a madman's dream.

Does anyone know the Joker's identity? ›

Batman finally discovers the Joker's real name

Thus, the Joker's real name is none other than Jack Oswald White; however, the story about the discovery of his identity has a storyline.

Is Joker's real name Ren or Akira? ›

Ren Amamiya, better known as Joker or The Phantom, is the main protagonist and player character of the video game Persona 5.

Why is Ren Amamiya so strong? ›

Since he was chosen to be the Trickster, he has the power of the Wild Card, which allows him to summons multiple Persona with varying levels of power and skills.

Who is Joker's boyfriend Persona 5? ›

Out of all the Confidants in Persona 5, Ryuji is the one who makes the most sense to date. I've always thought it was weird that you can't romance Ryuji in Persona 5.

What is Joker's strongest Persona? ›

Satanael: Joker's Ultimate Persona, which represents the spirit of the Trickster.

Who is the strongest Persona protagonist? ›

In terms of straight firepower, Aigis is the strongest persona user who will not lose in a physical fight. Her hard exterior and weapons are also helpful for any situation where she can't use a persona and has to defend herself.

Which girl to date Persona 5? ›

1 Ann Takamaki - Lovers

Some fans actually have said that the best part of romancing Ann is to get at Ryuji and Morgana. She certainly is popular, and the main reason is that she is the first Phantom Thief that is available.

What is Persona V canon name? ›

However, it was revealed that the Persona 5 protagonist does actually have a canon name. Although initially named Akira Kurusu in Persona 5's manga adaptation, Joker was given a second and final name. Used since the 2018 anime adaptation, the Persona 5 protagonist's official canon name is Ren Amamiya.

Why is Akira called Ren? ›

Ren means “rain,” and likely refers to the fact that it was raining when Joker met Ryuji at the beginning of Persona 5.

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