ComicBookCulture

According to Valerie Bodell, author of Comics and Autobiographical Identity, autobiography theorists believe that the author's narrative identity is separate from the their character in their book which is comprised of the author's past, present and future self. When taking into consideration the combination of the visual and textual styling of comic books there is a distinct relation between the identity, and perspective of characters in graphic novels and traditional novels. This combination of visual and textual play allows readers to better communicate with the author. Although the illustration of the narrative is less ambiguous, the combination of the two, based on art style and complexity of the details, allows readers transpose themselves into the narrative, giving them a more close relationship with the author. By having a story drawn by different artists and the careful consideration of names, Pekar was able to use various facetes of graphic novels to explore the many angles of identity.  

Rorschach is obviously the exact opposite of Dr. Manhattan. As a result, Rorschach is the only member of the Watchmen who doesn't see being a superhero as an occupation. In fact, he is the only member who refuses to retire after superheroes are illegalized but as a consequence, he is seen more as an amoral vigilante who takes the law into his own hands. But Rorschach's apathy towards morals can be seen as his empathy for the truth- a darker and more realistic truth.  Fundamentally, what makes Rorschach the most "traditional" superhero within the Watchmen universe, is the fact that he is a vigilante.  By living in a world where the celebration of superheroes is of the past, it is apparent that Rorschach’s mission falls directly in line with the primary definition of superhero- to be the "champions of the oppressed" who combats "evil an injustice".  His death is what makes him the heroic figure within the Watchmen universe because he is essentially the only one who selflessly sacrifices his life for the truth.