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

by William Indick

Overview

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, Anthony Mann and John Ford. The book includes a filmography and movie stills.

Instructors considering this book for use in a course may request an examination copy here.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780786434602
Publisher:	McFarland & Company, Inc., Publishers
Publication date:	09/10/2008
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	223
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.45(d)
Age Range:	18 Years

About the Author

William Indick is Professor of Psychology at Dowling College in Oakdale, New York. He is the author of several books on media psychology, and has written for numerous psychology journals. He lives in Islip, New York.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments     
Preface     
Introduction     

1. The Mythical Landscape     
2. White Knights of the West     
3. The Civilized and the Savage     
4. Western Women     
5. Atonement with the Indian     
6. Oedipal and Biblical Westerns     
7. Anthony Mann’s Psychological Westerns     
8. John Ford’s Ritualistic Westerns     

Conclusion: The Western... Dead or Alive?     
Filmography     
Bibliography     
Index     

Editorial Reviews

fans of Western movies will enjoy this book...accessible,interesting, and insightful”—Southwest Journal of Cultures.

From the Publisher

fans of Western movies will enjoy this book...accessible,interesting, and insightful

Southwest Journal of Cultures