Gunsmoke Episode Summary: "The Constable" (03-20-60)

Introduction

In the episode titled "The Constable" from the long-running Western drama Gunsmoke, United States Marshal Matt Dillon faces a formidable challenge in maintaining law and order in Dodge City, Kansas. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous American West, this episode delves into themes of authority, community, and the struggle between maintaining peace and appeasing influential business interests.

Plot Overview

Arrival of Rance and Rising Tensions The episode begins with Chester, a loyal assistant to Marshal Dillon, informing him about the release of a group of unruly cowboys. Dillon remarks on the temporary peace but warns that such tranquility is fragile and easily disrupted by "wild outfits" like the one led by Rance, a trail boss from Monte Cara, Texas.

Businessmen’s Intervention As Dillon maintains order by arresting troublemakers, the local businessmen, represented by Mr. Green, grow increasingly frustrated. During a meeting, Mr. Green and other prominent figures express their concerns:

• Mr. Green: “We all did, Marshall. Mr. Pepper. Mr. Howe and, well, all of us. Practically every man who does business in Dodge is here.”

• Mr. Green: “We've had a meeting, Marshall. We've decided you've got to go easier on these cowboys.”

Dillon defends his actions, emphasizing the necessity of enforcing the law to prevent chaos:

• Matt Dillon: “Nobody got killed last night, did they? Well, that isn't the point, according to the law.”

The businessmen argue that Dillon’s strictness is detrimental to their businesses, especially the saloons and gambling establishments that thrive on the cowboys' patronage. They suggest that Dillon focus his efforts outside of Dodge City to preserve their economic interests.

Introduction of Constable Dillard Amidst the brewing conflict, Chester introduces a new character, Constable Dillard, an inexperienced and overweight former cowboy who has reluctantly taken up the role due to financial necessity:

• Chester: “I'm the new constable. They picked me. I had to take it, Marshall. I'm... I'm so broke and all.”

Dillon expresses skepticism about Dillard's ability to handle the town's volatile situation, noting his lack of experience and reluctance to carry a weapon.

Escalation of Violence Despite Dillon’s efforts to maintain peace, Rance and his men escalate their aggression. By the following day, a new herd arrives, and the town plunges into chaos with shootings and confrontations breaking out. A critical incident involves a wounded man needing medical attention, which further complicates the marshal's predicament as Rance refuses to back down.

Climax: Confrontation with Rance As violence peaks, Dillard proves ineffective, and Dillon must take decisive action. With the support of Doc, the town's physician, Dillon orchestrates a plan to isolate Rance and his faction. He orders the saloons to close and lights to be turned off, cutting off the cowboys' usual haunts. This strategic move forces Rance to confront Dillon directly in the deserted streets.

During their confrontation, Dillon stands firm against Rance’s intimidation:

• Matt Dillon: “I won't make any more arrests and dodge until you come and ask me to. It's your town and you can blow it right off the map if you want. Good day.”

When tensions reach a boiling point, Dillon successfully subdues Rance without resorting to unnecessary violence, upholding the law while minimizing loss of life.

Key Characters

• Matt Dillon (William Conrad): The steadfast and principled United States Marshal dedicated to maintaining peace in Dodge City. Dillon embodies the moral center of the town, balancing firmness with fairness.

• Chester (Ari Bear): Dillon’s dependable assistant who brings by introducing the new constable. His interactions provide insight into the challenges Dillon faces.

• Rance (Character): A tenacious and aggressive trail boss whose arrival disrupts the fragile peace in Dodge City. Rance represents the untamed and lawless spirit that Dillon strives to control.

• Mr. Green (Ken Lynch): A local businessman concerned primarily with the economic implications of Dillon’s strict enforcement of the law. He symbolizes the conflict between economic interests and moral duty.

• Constable Dillard (Bartlett Robinson): An inexperienced and round character who attempts to uphold the law but lacks the necessary skills and authority, highlighting the difficulties in maintaining order.

• Doc (Howard Culver): The town physician who assists Dillon, representing the community's reliance on collective effort to address crises.

Themes and Insights

Law vs. Commerce A central theme in "The Constable" is the tension between upholding the law and catering to business interests. The businessmen’s reluctance to support Dillon’s enforcement efforts underscores the challenges lawmen face when their duties conflict with community or economic pressures.

Authority and Responsibility Marshal Dillon's unwavering commitment to justice, even in the face of opposition, highlights the responsibility that comes with authority. His interactions with Mr. Green and Rance demonstrate his dedication to maintaining peace, regardless of personal or communal costs.

Community and Collaboration The episode emphasizes the importance of community support in sustaining law and order. Dillon’s collaboration with Doc and the eventual backing from the businessmen after a tragic incident showcase how collective effort can restore stability.

Individual vs. Collective Action Constable Dillard’s ineptitude juxtaposed with Dillon’s effective leadership illustrates the critical role of competent individuals in collective endeavors. The episode suggests that single-minded dedication can significantly impact broader community outcomes.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Matt Dillon on Responsibility:

  • [03:29] “Things will be peaceful enough for a while. Till some wild outfit like this drag our herd his Tom.”

• Chester on Confrontation:

  • [05:12] “I mean I won't drive cattle that dies no more.”

• Mr. Green’s Pressure:

  • [06:36] “They won't stand for your slugging men and throwing them in jail.”

• Dillon’s Defiance:

  • [08:01] “It's true, it's true. There's only one way you'll learn, gentlemen.”

• Constable Dillard’s Introduction:

  • [09:36] “I didn't want you to be mad at me. I need the money. That's why I'm doing it.”

• Final Stand:

  • [16:13] “I ain't no gunfighter. Go on, you coward. Now why should I die? Ain't my business anyway.”

Conclusion

"The Constable" serves as a compelling narrative exploring the complexities of maintaining law and order in a rapidly changing Western town. Through Marshal Matt Dillon's steadfast leadership and moral integrity, the episode underscores the enduring struggle between order and chaos, authority and influence, and individual conviction versus collective pressure. This episode not only entertains with its dramatic confrontations and character dynamics but also offers thoughtful reflections on the nature of justice and community in the American West.