BE Rooster Cogburn

In Western films, the white alpha male cowboy is traditionally the most significant role in the film. Although “others” are clearly present throughout Western films, they never really demand the spotlight or play significant roles. The 1975 film, Rooster Cogburn, examines the revision of “the other” in Western films through the characters Eula Goodnight and Wolf. This rise in “the others” significance is affected by the current event of the 1970s.
Eula Goodnight, a strong, religious and courageous woman, transforms the role from “the other” to a female equivalent to an alpha-male cowboy. She embodies some typical Western women characteristics such as her freedom with language but her bravery sets her apart from the average Western woman. When Rooster is in danger of being shot, Eula is the one to shoot Hawk’s man to save Rooster’s life. This film is the first film to show women in their normal roll as well as having male characteristics. Not only does Eula win the acceptance of Rooster through her words but it is her actions that finalize her acceptance.
In the film, another character that normally is portrayed as an “other” plays a major role. Wolf, a young American Indian, displays his knowledge and abilities throughout the film. In a typical Western, the Indian is portrayed as minor help to the alpha-male cowboy or a villain roaming the desert. Wolf evolves as an apprentice of Rooster, trying to mimic his every move as Rooster is his role model. Rooster acknowledges Wolf’s desire to succeed and vows to help him achieve his dream of becoming a marshal. Rooster accepts Wolf and continues to grow close to normally “other” characters.
This 1975 film personifies cultural events that defined the 1970s. This decade revolved around acceptance and unity among all races, classes and genders. The progression each “other” character made symbolizes the struggle and success many minority groups went through during the 1970s. Main groups, during the 70s, were becoming more accepting and continued to strive for equality with events such as the second feminist movement and the constant fight for civil rights. As “other” people in society gained equality, “the others” in Western films gained more significance.