Hey everybody and welcome to Leia’s Lair.
Today’s episode will go over three ways that Star Wars: The Clone Wars gives Anakin’s
character arc in the prequel films more depth.
Star Wars: The Clone Wars both improved and expanded Anakin Skywalker’s character, there
is no question about that.
The series of events in the prequel trilogy that lead him to the Dark Side made sense,
but I know I personally found them to be a bit confusing and definitely rushed.
I just found that there were parts of his story and his path that just didn’t get
the attention they deserved.
That is where the Clone Wars stepped in.
The Clone Wars acted as a way to make sense of what exactly was going on in the galaxy
at that point in time and gave Anakin’s character the development and attention that
he deserved.
Obviously one of the most important characters in the show, across its 6 seasons Anakin was
not only able to evolve as an individual, but his push toward the Dark Side became even
stronger.
With all of this newly established structure for the character, his portrayal in Revenge
of the Sith came across as even more significant yet understandable.
Here are three main ways that the Clone Wars developed Anakin Skywalker’s character
Number 1: His Distrust Of The Jedi The Clone Wars furthered Anakin's distrust
for the Jedi Order, something not given much attention outside of a couple scenes in the
prequels.
It shows the flaws of the Jedi Order, something that Anakin acknowledges numerous times throughout
the series.
It was clear the moment he stepped in front of the council for the first time that his
beliefs were different than that of the Orders.
He wants to love, help people without reimbursement, and do what is morally right.
The Jedi simply want to keep the peace, ignoring the ugly stuff.
Both sides feel that they are right in how they operate, which pushes them to further
mutual distrust.
This is why instances such as in Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith when Anakin is appointed
to the council but is not given the rank of master, he erupts.
This frustration makes more sense after watching the Clone Wars when you realize this isn’t
the first time Anakin disagrees with the council.
Number 2: The Loss Of Ahsoka Changes Everything The relationship that Anakin and his padawan
Ahsoka shared was very well-executed and allowed both characters to develop immensely.
When she leaves the Jedi Order voluntarily after being wrongly accused and then found
not guilty of bombing the Jedi Temple, Anakin is devastated.
It was this event that sent Anakin further down his path of disillusionment with the
Jedi Order.
They offered to bring Ahsoka back in, but clearly felt no remorse for what they put
her through.
Their attempt to play off the situation as her final test was fake, and both Ahsoka and
Anakin saw right through it.
So while Ahsoka was not in the prequel trilogy directly, her absence from Anakin’s life
in Episode III could certainly be felt.
Number 3: Obi-Wan's A New Hope Characterization Is Realized
In Episode IV, Obi-Wan describes Anakin as "the best star pilot in the galaxy, and a
cunning warrior" as well as "a good friend," all events that are realized in the prequel
trilogy.
That being said, the Clone Wars was able to dive deeper and expand on their relationship.
The adventures he went on with Obi-Wan strengthened their bond and their understanding of one
another.
The series further elaborated on his Star Wars: A New Hope characterization, courtesy
of his former master and inn my opinion, the added depth from the Clone Wars only made
Anakin’s fall to the dark side even more tragic.
Overall, Anakin’s character in the prequel trilogy provides the necessary elements needed
to complete the storyline.
The Clone Wars, however, was able to expand his character and highlight the changes made
to his attitude that altered his character further.
It provided for moments that would forever become a part of his character, even into
his years as the Dark Lord of the Sith.
And there you have it!
Thanks for watching everyone!
Do you think the Clone Wars added more to the character of Anakin Skywalker?
Let me know down below in the comment section.
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I hope to see you all again in Leia’s Lair.