6 Reasons Why Jaws Is Secretly A Western

Quint's obsession with finding and killing the shark is both personal and dangerous and has huge similarities to Ethan Edwards in The Searchers (we're back there again). They are both determined to kill their quarry and their single mindedness drives their character's actions. Sure Quint could be based on Captain Ahab, but think of the ruthlessness displayed by Wayne's Edwards. He's frightening; he's uncompromising; he clashes with Jeffrey Hunter's Marty, who's idealism and naivete grate at him.

The moment Quint destroys the Orca's radio it's clear there is no going back; it's him or the shark. Similarly Ethan Edwards had no intention of turning back, as sure as the turning of the earth he's determined to find his prey. Neither character has a place in their respective societies. Quint is happiest on his battered fishing boat, even if he surely needs a bigger one and Edward's on his horse - living off the land; sleeping under the stars; always in pursuit.

Both men are defined by the hunt, unrelenting, purposeful, with no care for the impact their actions have on others. In this they could be interchangeable.