Archetypal Characters In The Movie Stagecoach

Throughout the film Stagecoach, there were several examples of archetypal characters.

Not only is the typical true western hero exhibited, however you also see the damsel in distress and many antagonists. The typical western hero attempts to embody the frontier. They’re overall goal is to be successful amongst their tasks with minimal regard to the understanding of danger.

Many times a western character desires to be destroyed. Although they don’t die, you typically see the brave heroine put themselves in an extreme situation of danger in order to complete a task. Overall, a western hero may be seen as the loner, however is strong in their morals. (Lusted,

2016)

Like most heroes, Ringo has an intense backstory. He is introduced to the film

Curly allows for Ringo to come aboard once he is detained and disarmed. Once aboard, it is revealed that Ringo had broken out of jail following his conviction for murder. It is also mentioned that he plans to target the

Plummer Brothers to avenge his fathers death. While aboard the stagecoach, Ringo plays the typical soft man when it comes to Dallas. Dallas is aboard to flee her career as a prostitute. Both individuals are seen as the outcasts. She shies away from Ringo fearing that her past may deter him. He acknowledges her past to her and states that he doesn’t care. Dallas attempts to assist

Ringo so he is able to flee the stagecoach and no longer be under arrest. Once hearing gunshots from an inbound Apache attack, Ringo stays noble and remains with the stagecoach. (Lusted,

2016)

Within the few scenes discussed above, there are many ways to how Ringo displays his honor therefore pursuing the ideals of a western hero. Historically, the western frontier is known to be a rugged journey and many challenges prevail. Stagecoaches remained the primary way of travel and are demonstrated perfectly throughout the film. When boarding the stagecoach,

With his given background and to be seen as a cowboy, he culturally dignifies his personal freedom. Although he requests for Dallas to accompany him following the travel, this is still seen to be on his terms. Western heroes are known for their inability to be tamed. Ringo also maintains his freedom by escaping prison to avenge his fathers death. Prison still was unable to tame Ringo. Once he gets his way however, Ringo is more likely to be cooperative. (Lusted,

2016)

Throughout Stagecoach, Ringo exudes the qualities of an archetypical western hero.

Since 1939, there have been minimal changes to the characteristics and understandings of a western hero.The western hero has certainly morphed into a more gender fluid role then what has been previously seen. Ringo maintains his heroism throughout and falls back on his word. He is sure to maintain security on the stagecoach even with the given opportunity to escape. He nobly avenges his fathers death by murdering the Plummer Brothers. Once he gets his way, he is cooperative and understanding of the consequences. He also is seen as the loner or the quiet