Star Wars: The Magic of Myth exhibition at the Smithsonian

"Star Wars: The Magic of Myth" was an exhibition that showcased artifacts from the creation of the Star Wars movie trilogy.

The exhibit delved into the mythical narrative of Luke Skywalker's odyssey from his initial call to adventure to his ultimate triumph. Featuring models, costumes, props, and original artwork from Lucasfilm Ltd.'s archives, it traced the journey of the Star Wars films—Star Wars: A New Hope (1977), The Empire Strikes Back (1980), Return of the Jedi (1983), and Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace—highlighting how they depict Luke and other characters as archetypal figures from myths and legends.

The exhibit's interpretive panels highlighted the mythological and literary components that render Star Wars a modern epic. Referencing Joseph Campbell's "The Power of Myth," the exhibition's narrative recognized the timeless characters such as the youthful hero, loyal companions, damsels in distress, sagacious mentors, and more, who animate the epic tale.