Why is Prototype.js so inconsistent?   
kangax: It looks like you're using some older version of Prototype. `getStyle` should return computed style of an element (there are bugs but they are more like edge cases). If something doesn't work, file a bug (with a reproducible test case, of course) and we'll look into it :) `Element.fade` is starting with lowercase `f` (perhaps it was uppercased in older versions of scripty). `Effect.appear` can be invoked on a collection with `invoke` - `$$(cssExpr).invoke('appear')`.Consider asking these questions on Prototype mailing list where there are always people willing to help.