The Myth and Reality of the Wild West

This chapter analyzes the romanticized perception of the American West through the lens of Wild West shows and early cinema, highlighting figures like Buffalo Bill and Calamity Jane. It contrasts the alluring image of cowboys with the harsh realities faced by settlers, including the struggles of survival and the complexities of Anglo-American and Native American interactions. Additionally, it explores evolving themes of masculinity, heroism, and the cultural implications of Western narratives, as well as the incorporation of diverse perspectives within the genre.