It's interesting to note that we tend to be very proud of where we come from, where we live, where we work, where we study, and where we enjoy ourselves. It's not unusual for people to actually come to blows over something as simple as bad mouthing another person's home country. These things are important and are revered as such. So, why is it that in so many stories the characters seem a bit lost when it comes to pride for their places?
I think of the great story "The Hunt for Red October" which was a book turned into a movie. The main conflict isn't the submarine, but the fact that the home country of the main character (the USSR) was upset at losing an honored commander to a rival country (the USA). On the other hand, the USA was protecting itself against what they saw as a rogue submarine from the rival USSR. Both sides were protecting their own country, with tremendous pride in the act.
On the other hand, take the Star Trek universe. Planetary pride seems a quaint notion for the majority of the heroes. They are mainly concerned with everyone getting along. Perhaps I've missed it, but it seems only the villains are vigilantly proud of their home planet. Even in the newest movies, the pride of home turf doesn't seem to matter much--except again the villains, and Spock (who loses his to treachery).. The stories are great, but I miss the loyalist attitude of the older science fiction shows--Lost in Space may not have been great writing, but the characters desperately wanted to go home and I can sympathize with that.
Characters competing over who's home is better makes for fun entertainment. At least, I think so. The audience quickly understands the stakes, and then the author can get on with the action. Anything that helps the story get going is a good thing and using easily understood conflict is a fine way to do that.
And in America, Happy Veterans Day!
- M
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