First published 2016
Star Wars stands alongside Santa Claus, Shakespeare, and the Bible as a cultural touchstone. Cass R. Sunstein examines what the saga teaches us about childhood, fathers, the Dark Side, rebellion, and redemption. He discovers that George Lucas's creation also illuminates constitutional law, economics, and political uprisings. Sunstein tells how the films achieved their unexpected success and analyzes why certain stories triumph while others disappear. He argues that Star Wars ultimately celebrates freedom of choice and our capacity to choose correctly under pressure. The book explores these themes through detailed analysis of the films, connecting John Williams's iconic score and those golden opening letters to deeper questions about human nature and society.
Genres: non-fiction, academic, cultural-studies, american-history
Vibes: analytical, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: academic, analysis
223 pages · Hardcover · Dey Street Books