JE #1B

Again, “The Lone Ranger” is another source of entertainment that I am not familiar with it. My only understanding of this show is from a parody version from a Winnie-the-Pooh episode. Nonetheless, my understanding of him and his trusty steed was that he was a protector of the land, a humble hero that was mysterious. After watching the episode I noticed some interesting ideological messages that subtly hint towards something larger from this particular time in the U.S. One warped characterization of this particular show is the role of the Lone Ranger in the Wild Wild West. He serves as a protector of peoples who previously owned this land (Native Americans). The Lone Ranger’s relationships with the characters in the show imply a lot in terms of social dynamics during this time period. “Tonto” for instance is the Native American sidekick with a very demeaning name literally translating into stupid or idiot from Spanish. In a sense, the Lone Ranger gives a “civilized” voice for the people he protects. As mentioned in one of the supplementary articles, Texas Rangers were looked at (and apparently still are) as renowned law enforcers. This idea of land being property, and property being owned enabled Anglos to violently defend something they truly believed to be theirs because apparently they occupied it more efficiently. Indigenous practices appreciate and acknowledge mother earth and ask permission to receive nourishment. Anglo culture says the earth is ours; so much that people today can get away with murder by defending their property.