Star Wars: The Magic of Myth

The exhibit is now closed.

Star Wars: The Magic of Myth explored the mythical message of Luke Skywalker's journey from his first call to adventure to his final victory. Showcasing models, costumes, props, and original artwork from the archives of Lucasfilm Ltd., the exhibition traced the Star Wars films-Star Wars: A New Hope (1977), The Empire Strikes Back (1980), Return of the Jedi (1983), and Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace-and how it presents the young Luke and other characters as archetypes from stories and legends.

Interpretive panels throughout the exhibition pointed out the mythological and literary elements that made Star Wars a newly cast epic. Drawing on the work of Joseph Campbell in his series The Power of Myth, the exhibition text identified the classic characters of young hero, faithful companions, damsel in distress, wise guide, and others that enliven the saga.