The Psychology of the Western: How the American Psyche Plays Out on Screen

by William Indick

Western films are often considered sprawling reflections of the American spirit. This book analyzes the archetypes, themes, and figures within the mythology of the western frontier. Western themes are interpreted as expressions of cultural needs that perform specific psychological functions for the audience. Chapters are devoted to the frontier hero character, the roles of women and Native Americans, and the work of the genre's most prolific directors,...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0786434600
• ISBN13: 9780786434602
• Release Date: September 2008
• Publisher: McFarland & Company
• Length: 223 Pages
• Weight: 0.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.0" x 8.9"
• Age Range: 18 years and up
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher