Gunfight SH

In Gunfight at the OK Corral, we see the Hero / Sidekick relationship between Wyatt Earp and Doc Holladay. Wyatt Earp is pure in motivation and in duty, upholding the law even through bribes and facing death. He prohibits firearms in the town of tombstone, and enforces the law with his brothers. He is loyal to Doc Holladay, even though he has a reputation of being a killer and a gambler, because Doc saves Wyatt’s life. He will ride with Doc even if people dislike it.

Doc shows his weakness through his gambling and fighting habits. He is a known outlaw. He disobeys the law to shoot a man in the street because he stole his woman. He dislikes being associated with the law and even threatens to kill Wyatt’s brother. He lives by the gun. Although he can hardly stand, he goes to fight with Wyatt. Although he shows bravery by sticking by Wyatt and saving his life, because of his weaknesses he will always be limited to the role of sidekick to Wyatt Earp.

Gunfight at the OK Corral shows that even opposites can team up to fight a common enemy. They are joined through loyalty and bravery, and respect for brave actions, although they may not completely agree with each other. They will face death out of loyalty for each other. The alpha male cowboy of the law is the dominant hero while a lesser man, an outlaw, drunk, but brave and loyal, by his side.