These 17 papers explore the myths and cultural meanings of the Star Wars films of George Lucas, their reception by audiences and critics, and the marketing and merchandising empire it has spawned, offering a range of perspectives and theoretical approaches. Editors Kapell (a historian and anthropologist, formerly at the U. of Michigan-Dearborn) and Lawrence (emeritus, philosophy, Morningside College) have organized the collection into section on myth; religion; sexuality and gender; genetics, social order, and domination; playtoys and collecting; and evaluations. Annotation ©2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)