The original Harley Quinn story is centered around her transformation from Dr. Harleen Quinzel to Harley Quinn. In Arkham Asylum, she was tasked with treating the Joker. However, the Joker's charm and his unique brand of madness were too much for her to resist. He played on her emotions and her desire to understand the criminal mind. As she became more and more involved with him, she started to break away from her professional and moral boundaries. Eventually, she fully embraced the role of Harley Quinn, becoming a key part of the Joker's world in Gotham. She brought a new level of chaos and unpredictability, not just as a sidekick but as a character with her own complex personality.
In the original Harley Quinn story, the key elements are multiple. Her initial identity as Dr. Harleen Quinzel is crucial as it shows her as an educated and professional woman. But then there's her exposure to the Joker. His influence on her is so strong that it completely changes her life. Her new look as Harley Quinn, with the jester - like costume and makeup, symbolizes her break from her old self. And her loyalty to the Joker, despite his abuse, is also a significant part of the story that makes her character complex.
The emancipation of Harley Quinn has been depicted as a comic. It explores her character development and story in that medium. There are various storylines and art styles that contribute to the overall narrative.
Harley Quinn's sexuality in the comics isn't strictly defined as gay. It varies across different story arcs, with her showing interest in characters of various genders.