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The Searchers, a film directed by John Ford, is one of the great American western classics. Although, at its time, It was unrecognized by critics, today many directors have reflected the film in their works. The Searchers is the tale of a lone, crusading man, played by John Wayne, who lives his life as a constant journey. Ethan is a lonely, tragic character who is obsessed with hatred and revenge. This film explores the psychology of issues such as racism, feminism, imperialism, and the fallen hero. The Searchers is a film that reflects the hatred against other races that was quite common during the 1950's. Ethan, the main character, is a highly prejudiced man. Along with him on his travels, he carries spite towards the Comanche Indians. This is somewhat odd because Ethan is an expert in their ways and can also fluently speak their language. His hatred for this tribe is fueled by the deaths of his one love, Martha, his niece, Lucy, and by the abduction of his other niece, Debbie. When Ethan first enters, family greets him. Upon meeting his nephew, Marty, Ethan develops an immediate dislike. Marty is part Indian, and therefore, deserves to be treated in an intolerant, harsh, and insult
The idea of feminism is subtly touched upon in this film. Because the film is based on the frontier, the perception of women is that of strength. Life on the frontier was harsh. Women were not viewed as dainty or fragile. They worked long and hard days just as the men did. In The Searchers, Martha is a strong force in the family. She is the essence of not giving up or weakening. In the tense, uneasy pre-massacre scene, Martha pretends that nothing is amiss to avoid scaring the children. Although nervous, Martha stays composed and calm. Marty's love, Laurie, is also a strong female character. She provides Marty with necessities for his journey such as her horse, but she informs him that she won't wait around for him much longer, "Don't you count on findin' me here when you get back. I've been hangin' around this god-forsaken windscow for two long years waitin' for ya. I ain't cut out to be no old maid." ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Another aspect of the film is the idea of imperialism. Ethan is extremely preoccupied with being in control. He is ultimately seen as the leader of the group, although he would much rather have complete control and continue on the search himself. First of all, Ethan insists that his brother Aaron stay on the homestead so that Ethan may lead the search. He rejects the idea of being deputized because he believes he must be his own man. During the search, Ethan is so consumed by vengeance and hatred, he decides to take the law into his own hands. He dismisses all o
Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 1054
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)
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