Hon. William Frederick Cody (Buffalo Bill), Rifle Shooter, from World's Champions, Series 1 (N28) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1887

This small card, made by Allen and Ginter, once slipped into cigarette packs, presents William Frederick Cody, or "Buffalo Bill," as a paragon of American prowess. Note the rifle. It’s not merely a tool; it’s a symbol, laden with the weight of conquest and survival. This weapon echoes the ancient hero's spear or the hunter's bow. But here, it carries a distinctly American narrative – one of expansion, dominance, and the subjugation of nature itself. Consider how this image mirrors depictions of classical heroes: the steady gaze, the confident posture. Yet, the rifle replaces the sword, and the Wild West supplants the ancient battlefield. The collective memory of heroism adapts, finding new forms and symbols in each epoch. It is a powerful force, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. Thus, the figure of Buffalo Bill transcends mere portraiture. It evolves, taking on new meanings, intertwined with the ever-shifting narratives of history and cultural memory.