The Hero's Trail

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The great American Westerns transcend mere entertainment, serving as a vital part of a dynamic national mythology. These films, akin to the archetypal Hero's Journey, offer profound insights into life, love, nature, society, ethics, beauty, and the human experience, making them essential for understanding American culture. This book acts as both a film guide and historical survey, delving into the mythic and artistic elements of 52 significant Westerns from the genre's first half-century. Each film is critically analyzed, covering a range from early silent movies to Golden Age classics like "Red River," "High Noon," and "Shane." The content is organized into three parts: the silent era, the talkies, and the Golden Age, providing a comprehensive overview of the genre's evolution. Notable films include "The Great Train Robbery," "The Virginian," "Duel in the Sun," and "Winchester '73." The exploration highlights both orthodox and subversive narratives, showcasing the diversity within the genre. The conclusion offers a Western viewing list spanning from 1903 to 1953, along with notes, a bibliography, and an index, enriching the reader's understanding of these iconic films and their cultural significance.