English, Week 145 Essay

"Compare and contrast the attitude of each movie regarding guns"

Shane portrays guns in a somewhat neutral light. The little boy, Joey finds them fascinating and is eager to master them. When a talented shooter begins work for his father, Joey is enthralled by him. His mother, Marian resents Shane's endeavors to teach the youngster his skills. She doesn't want her son to be influenced by what she considers evil. Joey's father, Jo Starrett, only uses his rifle for protection, if he absolutely has to. It's a matter of self-defense for him, not a necessity.Shane, however, always keeps his trusty pistol by his side. He understands Marian's concern, but also believes guns can be used for good. It depends on the character of the person using them.He demonstrates his talent by shooting a rock many feet away from him. The scene is a startling and mesmerizing part of the film, that sends chills up your spine. A combination of a deafening, ear-splitting sound, and the hazy smoke create a perfect effect. It ingrains a fear in viewers, reminding them how deadly and lethal guns are. They are certainly not a toy to be played with, or taken for granted by the inexperienced.Fatal injuries can occur if one isn't careful. Rikker, the notorious and hated cattle lord, Eventually Shane will protect Joey's father, by taking on Rikker himself. The threat to the settlers is ended, and they no longer have to worry about being driven from their land. Yet this couldn't have been accomplished without employing a gun. So, in this way, Shane uses his pistol not to harm, but to save lives.

High Noon shows a similar approach to the classic revolvers of the west. Marshall Will Kane's wife, Amy is strongly opposed to them. The energetic, promising couple has only just wed, and Will had sworn to quit the business. This is before an old criminal he'd convicted decided to return, and cause havoc.Amy is a committed Quaker and a peacemaker and believes killing isn't the answer to Will's problem. She is intent on convincing her husband guns aren't indispensable. She has witnessed first-hand the negative effects of guns, after  It baffles her that he would stay to defend the cowardly people of their town, when he could easily flee. Cooper considers it to be his duty, to stay and face his old foe Frank Miller. If he must confront him alone, he will not cower into the shadows with fear. He will employ his gun if necessary to end the ordeal once and for all. The bravery of Kane is admirable, since he is not afraid of dying in the attempt. Even at the risk of losing his wife, he still prevails in pursuing the villain. Eventually Amy regrets her decision, and returns to her courageous husband. She decides to let go of her convictions, and remain by her partner's side. Amy is even bold enough to rescue him, by shooting the felon in the back! Her arrival is right in the nick of time, because Will is nearly killed. This is an astounding end and completely unexpected. High Noon concludes with a positive note, concerning guns as moral weapons.