John Wayne's America: The Politics of Celebrity

by Garry Wills

Description

In this incisive study of celebrity and political culture, Garry Wills explores how Marion Morrison was transformed into the enduring American icon known as John Wayne. Tracing the influence of Hollywood, influential directors, and changing national moods, Wills examines how Wayne’s screen persona came to embody ideals of masculinity, patriotism, self-reliance, and personal responsibility. The book distinguishes the man from the myth, revealing how popular culture reshaped—and sometimes obscured—the realities of Wayne’s life and beliefs. Richly argued and historically perceptive, it shows how audiences helped invest a movie star with the power and meaning of a national symbol.

Available Editions

paperback edition cover

paperback

Simon & Schuster

Published Jan 1, 1997

380 pages

ISBN: 9780684808239

available

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Details

First Published

1997

Language

eng

Content Warnings

No content warnings identified.