The Myth Awakens
Canon, Conservatism, and Fan Reception of Star Wars
- Arts & Literature
- Publisher: Cascade Books (Wipf and Stock)
- Published: 2018
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Publisher's Description
The trailers for Star Wars: The Force Awakens made a strong impression on fans. Many were excited by what they saw as a return to the spirit of George Lucas's 1977 creation. Others--including several white supremacy groups--were upset and offended by key differences, most notably the shift away from a blond, blue-eyed, male protagonist. When the film was finally released, reactions similarly seemed to hinge on whether or not The Force Awakens renewed the "mythic" aspects of the original trilogy in ways that fans approved of. The Myth Awakens examines the religious implications of this phenomenon, considering the ways in which myth can function to reinforce "traditional" social and political values. In their analyses the authors of this book reflect on fan responses in relation to various elements of (and changes to) the Star Wars canon--including toys, video games, and novels, as well as several of the films. They do so using a variety of critical tools, drawing from studies of gender, race, psychology, politics, authority, music, ritual, and memory.
Endorsements (2)
“Ken Derry's introduction sets the tone for this book. He argues that we ought to take study of popular culture, in this case the Star Wars saga, seriously, because it opens up areas of discussion and interest that are ignored by theology and film. At the same time that we take popular culture seriously, Derry also suggests we take ourselves less seriously. The serious study of religion, myth, and film can actually be fun. You will have fun reading the essays in this book.”
“‘Crazy thing is . . . it’s true. The Force. The Jedi . . . All of it . . . It’s all true.” So says Han Solo in The Force Awakens. This excellent collection helps us to better understand the Star Wars universe, but also gives us insight into the study of religion in our own universe.”
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