Ethan Edwards is a fictional character from the classic 1956 film, The Searchers, directed by John Ford. Portrayed by John Wayne, Ethan is a complex and rugged former Confederate soldier who embarks on a quest to rescue his kidnapped niece from a Native American tribe. His character is marked by a deep sense of determination and a troubled past. Throughout the film, Ethan's journey explores themes of racism, revenge, and redemption. His interactions with other characters, including Martin Pawley, a young man of mixed heritage, highlight the tensions and conflicts of the time. Ethan's character remains iconic in American cinema, representing both heroism and moral ambiguity.