Thematic elements of a space opera are: a sympathetic/relatable character (Luke Skywalker), elements of romance, elements of mysticism and mythology (the Force), elements of heroism (Skywalker blowing up the Death Star), an emphasis on drama (or even melodrama), plot elements of war and battle (Sith vs. Jedi), and an optimistic outlook and/or happy ending (Death Star destroyed).
Monomyth: a typical format in which a hero goes on an adventure, fights and wins in a crisis, and returns home to find they have changed. This image shows the stages:
I think Luke's journey is the "monomyth" of the film, as he leaves his home planet, battles for the rebels and Jedi, destroys the Death Star, and returns home very different.
The Force and technology use different means to accomplish a similar goal: control over the galaxy. The technology is highly advanced for the time, and it surpasses anything people in 1977 had seen. It is left unexplained, but people can infer that the development of technology over time could lead to these inventions. The Force differs from technology in essence- it taps into religious belief, and the power of faith, in order to be used. This is reminiscent of worldwide religious belief, in which religions demand that their followers believe without proof. It is heavily stated, through both point of view and dialogue, that the Force is the "right" choice. People who use technology are often evil, with the prime example being the Stormtroopers. People in the US were dealing with the rapid rise of technology, and at the same time, a New Conservatism which revived religious America. The two forces are represented by the Force and technology in the film.
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