A Responsible Western Hero Luke Stephen Cannon 9th Grade

When Shane was published in 1949, it was considered a very unusual western fiction novel. Unlike other books at the time, the book’s hero was the title character. Still more unusual was the fact that Shane himself was not a cold-blooded killer. Instead he was a brave, strong, loyal man who only fought if it was unavoidable. Shane did not show off his gun, but rather kept it out of sight although it was always handy and ready for action. Throughout the book, Shane shows good leadership and, at the same time, made everyone’s life better. Farmers looked up to him because they knew he was a good leader. Shane was a good leader because of his experience, because he did what was best for his family, and finally, because of his influence on others.

Shane is a role model because he has the experience and virtue that the others are lacking. He is loyal, strong, and brave, and knows how to identify when it is time to use guns to settle an argument, unlike other cowboy heroes who constantly use their guns to settle arguments. Shane shows his experience in many ways. One time, after hearing that the hot-headed Wilson had come to town, Shane offers his valuable advice, but it comes too late and Ernie Wright is shot. A second incident occurs...