Who / What
Patrick Bateman is a fictional character created by novelist Bret Easton Ellis.
He serves as the villainous protagonist and unreliable narrator of Ellis’s 1991 novel *American Psycho*.
In the 2000 film adaptation, the role was portrayed by Christian Bale.
Background & History
Bateman emerged as the central figure in Ellis’s satire of 1980s excess.
The character was first introduced in the novel published in 1991.
Ellis crafted him as a wealthy, materialistic yuppie and Wall Street investment banker.
The story later inspired a 2000 film adaptation featuring Bale as Bateman.
Why Notable
Bateman exemplifies the hyper‑consumerist culture of the 1980s.
His dual life as a respected banker and a serial killer has become emblematic of the novel’s critique of corporate morality.
The character’s depiction has sparked discussions about violence, identity, and societal values.
In the News
Recent discussions focus on the cultural impact of *American Psycho* and its film adaptation.
The character remains relevant in conversations about media influence and the portrayal of violence.
