Self-Invention and Celebrity

Where it surfaces

• Introductory

  Cody's transformation from a plainsman to a nationally known actor and landowner illustrates the theme of self-invention and the creation of a public persona.

• The Life of Buffalo Bill

  Cody transforms from a frontier scout into the internationally famous showman 'Buffalo Bill,' illustrating the power of self-invention.

• Childhood

  Young Cody's pride in owning ponies and his early adventures foreshadow his later self-invention as Buffalo Bill, a frontier celebrity.

• Early Influences

  Horace Billings, a former Californian, reinvents himself as a skilled horseman and becomes a hero figure for young Cody, foreshadowing Cody's own self-invention.

• Boy Days in Kansas

  Young Bill's resourcefulness and early employment with Majors & Russell set the stage for his later self-invention as Buffalo Bill.

• Youthful Experiences

  Cody's first newspaper interview and his pride in being called 'the youngest Indian slayer on the plains' mark the beginning of his self-mythologizing.

• X: Questionable Proceedings

  Wild Bill's exploits are already being spread by newspapers, building his legendary status; Cody's own narrative frames these events as foundational to his own story.

• A Soldier

  Cody's enlistment while drunk and his subsequent rise to noncommissioned officer illustrate his ability to adapt and reinvent himself in new circumstances.

• XII: A Wedding

  Cody's marriage and his growing reputation as a scout and guide (e.g., impressing Custer) contribute to his emerging public persona.

• XIV: Earning a Title

  Cody earns the nickname 'Buffalo Bill' through his hunting exploits, marking the beginning of his legendary persona.

• Champion Buffalo Killer

  Cody's victory in the match and his subsequent fame as 'champion buffalo hunter' illustrate his self-made celebrity status.

• A Desperate Fight

  Cody's exploits, including killing Tall Bull and racing his horse, contribute to his growing legend, while Ned Buntline's presence foreshadows the myth-making that will define Buffalo Bill's public image.

• Administering Justice

  Cody's appointment as justice of the peace and his naming of his son after Kit Carson reflect his growing public persona and self-fashioning.

• Hunting with a Grand Duke

  Cody's role as a guide and entertainer for royalty reinforces his celebrity status as Buffalo Bill.

• Sightseeing

  Cody's awkward stage debut and the public's demand for the 'real' Buffalo Bill highlight his transformation into a celebrity figure.

• An Actor

  Cody reinvents himself from scout and legislator to a stage star, leveraging his frontier persona for fame and profit.

• Starring

  Buffalo Bill and Wild Bill navigate the transition from frontier heroes to stage performers, highlighting the construction of celebrity identity.

• Dangerous Work

  Cody capitalizes on his wartime exploits by creating a drama based on the Sioux war, transitioning from scout to showman.

• Conclusion

  Buffalo Bill navigates government bureaucracy to retain his Indian actors, demonstrating his ability to shape his own celebrity and business.