Matheson- KB

The first point that Matheson discusses in the West-Hard boiled is that the american hero is supposed to ignore the law, his wife, and his children. As a man it is expected of him to be tough and noble and almost act above showing love for his family. Matheson then goes into discussing how civilization and the frontier collide. The frontier and civilization in a way represent the man and his family and how the man is rough like the frontier and the civilization is below him. The hero should always return to the frontier because that is where he is meant to be. Much like how the man is supposed to act unloving and sympathetic. Matheson then examines the clothing of the characters in The Searchers. Depending on the setting the clothes change and represent different feelings, emotions, and attitudes. The clothing in westerns can be considered hostile if the color is too bold or can be considered not mainly enough it is is too quiet. Individualism is an important theme in the westerns. It is important for the hero to remain himself and to not let others influence or change who he is or what he thinks. Every man has their own values and their own way to carry out the actions. The main ideas of the article is what defines a man. The definition of a man is different for everyone and can be carried out in many different ways. The love for a mans family does not need to be shown with emotion but a "manly" way of showing emotion is doing what is best for his family and doing anything and everything to protect his wife and children no matter what the law says a man will stop at nothing to protect his family.