Philosophy and religion in Star Wars
Encyclopedia
George Lucas
' creation of the Star Wars
saga was influenced by mythology
, philosophy
, and religion
and the popularity of the film series inevitably led to even more comparisons being made.
, House of Atreus), Arthurian Legend, Roman mythology
, and Japanese chambara such as the prominence of prophecy and the inability to control one's destiny. For example, Luke Skywalker
's relationship with his father
is very reminiscent of Greek tragedy, while the original film contained elements which were interpreted by some as analogous of the Arthurian myths: Luke's lightsaber (a "magic sword") was inherited from his father, just as Excalibur
once belonged to Arthur's father. The wise mentor, Obi-Wan Kenobi
, can be seen as a Merlin figure; and a round "Chess" table appears aboard the Millennium Falcon
.
Many concepts featured in the saga also feature prominently in Persian mythology
. A central theme of the story concerns the struggle between the forces of good against the forces of evil – this good-versus-evil duality is a central concept of Persian mythology and Zoroastrianism
; in which the benevolent creator deity Ahura Mazda
is locked in a constant cosmic struggle against his antithesis, Angra Mainyu
.
The Star Wars films also show considerable similarity to Asian Wuxia "Kung Fu" films. In films of this genre, the protagonist almost always begins with a clear objective to avenge the death of someone dear (an old master, his father, or his entire family). Starting as an apprentice, he grows to become the most powerful Master of his art in Kung Fu and rightfully settles old scores inflicted to his loved ones. The influence of Japanese pathos is obvious in the technique of the lightsaber
being similar to the use of the Japanese Samurai
swords, and the etiquette-conscious Jedi humility to the Japanese bows in greetings (the word Jedi comes from the Japanese term "Jidai Geki", which translates as "period drama"(see Jedi). The Jedi also live by a code of conduct and battle similar to the Samurai Code (or Bushido
) as well as providing protection without being soldiers for a particular Nation or Government, which could also be related to Shaolin Monks.
.
, Obi-Wan first explains the dichotomy of good and evil encompassed in the Force. He tells Luke that "For over a thousand generations the Jedi Knights were the guardians of peace and justice in the Old Republic." Then moments later he contrasts the Jedi
with the actions of Darth Vader: "He betrayed and murdered your father. Now the Jedi are all but extinct. Vader was seduced by the dark side of the Force." Little other doctrine is expounded on in Episode IV, nevertheless, the violent nature of Darth Vader
is viewed in contrast with the mostly passive behavior of Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Of all of the films, Episode V contains the most thorough explanations of the nature of the Force. During Luke's training on Dagobah
, Yoda
states, "A Jedi's strength flows from the Force. But beware of the dark side. Anger...fear...aggression. The dark side of the Force are they. Easily they flow, quick to join you in a fight. If once you start down the dark path, forever will it dominate your destiny, consume you it will, as it did Obi-Wan's apprentice." Luke then says, "Vader. Is the dark side stronger?" to which Yoda replies "No...no...no. Quicker, easier, more seductive." And Luke again asks "But how am I to know the good side from the bad?" and Yoda replies "You will know. When you are calm, at peace. Passive. A Jedi uses the Force for knowledge and defense, never for attack." (Yet Lucas states in the commentary for Episode II: Attack of the Clones
, that the dark side
is more powerful. "We're cementing [Anakin's] determination to become the most powerful Jedi. The only way you can really do that is to go to the dark side because the dark side is more powerful. If you want the ultimate power, you really have to go to the stronger side, which is the dark side." Some speculate this is a verbalization of Anakin's rationalizations and motives, or that Yoda was attempting to protect Luke from following the same path as his father; nonetheless Lucas seems to be speaking directly to the nature of the Force as it operates in the universe he created. Additionally, during the DVD supplemental features for Episode III: Revenge of The Sith
, when discussing the lightsaber duels, it is explained that Anakin now has the ultimate skill level (one level above even his own mentor, Obi-Wan Kenobi) because Anakin has become a Sith. Lucas therefore may be referring to the power of the dark side in purely physical, combat-related terms, while Yoda's belief is that the two forces are of equal power more generally).
Star Wars stresses the self-destructive nature of fear, anger, hate, selfishness, and lust for power. In Episode I, Yoda
summarizes stating, "Fear is the path to the dark side: fear leads to anger, anger leads to hate, hate leads to suffering." Patience, discipline, humility, monasticism
, respect for one's elders, peace with one's self, trust in things spiritual over things physical, and self-sacrifice are extolled as virtues. However, a stoic
position of setting aside personal feelings for others in order to bring about a greater good is also emphasized. For example, Luke Skywalker
is told to remain on Dagobah
to complete his training rather than rescue his friends from Cloud City, because doing so will "destroy all for which they have fought and suffered."
Undoubtedly however, the strongest influence is Taoist philosophy, and secondarily Zen
Buddhism, which inherited much from Taoism. The light and dark side of the Force are analogous to the Yin and Yang
duality of the Tao
; the Force to T'ai chi and Qi
. The practitioners of Taoism and Qigong
, according to Taoist annals, can live upwards of 200 years. Many true Taoist masters eventually became "hsien ren " or spirit-like beings, immortals who could partake and interact in the day-to-day earthly activities, not unlike what Obi-Wan and Yoda become after their passing away, interacting and participating indirectly in the lives of the living. Taoism emphasizes smooth flow of the Qi originating from a balance of the Yin and Yang forces in all manifestations of life, including the human anatomy and the environment. The similarities with the duality of the Sith and Jedi being the dark and light extremes of the Force, which Anakin Skywalker, the "chosen one" is to finally "bring into balance."
There are also similarities between the Jedi and ordained religious instructors. The Jedi Council
determines who can be trained. Then through both group studies and a mentor
–protégé relationship they learn the mysteries of the Force (which are not disseminated to the general population) and how to use it. Finally upon the completion of their training the student is tested by the Jedi council through a series of "Trials", after which the Jedi council confers upon them the rank of Jedi Knight through a special ceremony. Numerous parallels can be drawn to monastic orders. The manner by which Jedi fight evil using the Force may also be said to compare to the Christian idea of clergy calling on the power of God to exorcise demons. This perception is reinforced by Han Solo's sarcastic description of the Force in Episode IV as "all-powerful", which it isn't. In fact, the Force is more like the "life force" or the "Brahman" of Hinduism. It is apparent, however, that Jedi rely on their own mastery of the impersonal Force to exert power, while the Christian traditionally relies only on the mercy of a personal God, and not on any innate ability or "skill" as Force use requires.
The Force, in some occasions and descriptions, seems to be rather attentive and conscious despite the initial perception of it as impersonal. For instance, the Force itself impregnates Shmi Skywalker resulting in the birth of Anakin, the "Chosen One"; this is strongly similar to the Nativity Story of Christianity and denotes at least some personality or consciousness to the Force, at least to the point that it is conscious but rarely personal with the universe. This parallel is undermined by the discussion of Darth Plagueis, who was said by Palpatine to be "so wise and so powerful that he could actually use the Force to influence the midi-chlorians to create life."
Clearly, a "Chosen One" of the Force is similar to the Christian view of Jesus
, in that it is an "Anointed" or "Chosen" or "Elect" One that redeems the Light and brings greater balance to "the Force". Christ
's death on the cross as a means of deliverance is also echoed by the destruction of the old republic and the Jedi
order as part of the fulfilment of Anakin
's destiny to bring balance to the force. Furthermore, Christ is considered by Christians to have had no father and to have been conceived by the Holy Ghost, just as Anakin
, the supposed "Chosen One", is assumed to have been conceived by midi-chlorians, as he too had no father.
The monastic tradition from Christianity
, Hinduism
, and Buddhism
religions is echoed in the strict code by which the Jedi live. The Jedi do not seek after material possessions. Both Obi-Wan and Yoda spent considerable time living as hermits. The Jedi code also forbids romantic love of any kind - making it similar to Catholic vows of celibacy
.
The ethical values of the Jedi Order also bear similarities to that of the philosopher Immanuel Kant: whose ethical theory is based around actions motivated by duty not passion, and includes many moral maxims similar to Jedi values. The reverse can also be applied to the Sith
, i.e. Sith are motivated by passion not duty.
and Revenge of the Sith
that he considers absolute power a legitimate means to achieve cooperation among all species and factions in the galaxy. In Revenge of the Sith, he reveals his desire to rule the galaxy with his wife Padme, and thereby to bring order and peace to the Republic (later the Empire), perhaps becoming some sort of benevolent despot. In Episode V, Vader again expresses this desire, this time inviting his son, Luke, to rule with him. In both instances, there is no question that Darth Vader himself would wield absolute power over the forces of the Empire.
In contrast, the Jedi govern through a shared power structure with many "checks and balances". As Jedi they govern with a council based on merit and seniority. In the Republic they allowed themselves to be deployed on missions according to the wishes of the Chancellor and they did not seek to manipulate the activities of the Senate. The Jedi are almost completely devoid of jealousy and competitive ambition within their ranks.
of Star Wars. In Episode VI, Obi-Wan posthumously admits to deceiving Luke. Obi-Wan asserts that "many of the truths we cling to depend greatly on our own point of view." While Anakin's character changes dramatically when he transitions to Darth Vader, he is still Luke's father. This ambiguity is what makes it possible for Luke to see the good in his father and so to save him. Lucas admits that the distinction between good and evil is relative; it mainly serves the instructive aims of every legend. With Vader's final act at the end of Episode VI another thesis is reversed: that of the choice of the good or the bad side being definitive. Anakin's life shows how a mistake can be redeemed.
However, Yoda and Mace Windu both defeat Count Dooku and Darth Sidious, respectively, while still maintaining control; although it should be noted that Mace's use of Vaapad (Form VII of lightsaber combat) required Mace to accept, channel and "boomerang" Sidious' dark energy, by definition a Dark Side concept. Also, Obi-Wan Kenobi defeated Anakin Skywalker only when Anakin's judgement became impaired by an over-estimation of his own power, engendered by the dark side. In addition, Kenobi defeated Darth Maul by feeling the Force and conquering his anger. It is also made plain in Episode V that Luke Skywalker is negatively influenced by a tendency towards impatience and anger during his confrontation with Darth Vader. From these cases it would seem that control is "good" and anger "bad". Due to these seemingly contradictory factors, it is difficult to understand exactly what kinds of Force the Jedi consider legitimate. This unclear boundary between the light and dark sides (and hence, the ease of transition to evil) may or may not have some bearing on the fact that Jedi are sometimes tempted by the dark side as soon as they become sufficiently powerful.
. The final scenes of Episode III add a symbolic emphasis to this role. After Anakin is "killed" on Mustafar
, a robed emperor mourns over his "dead" protégé, in a composition reminiscent of the Pietà
. This would suggest that the "dead" Anakin will be resurrected. The hierarchy and role of the Jedi Knights also bears a strong resemblance to the Knights Templar
of medieval Christendom.
The film series started in Episode IV with the obvious cliché — Darth Vader in matte and shiny black outfit, with Leia Organa in pristine white robes, alluding to the concepts of good versus evil. With the exception of Anakin in the teenage years in Episode II and III (although one could arguably say that he was a bit "destined" for the Sith, so maybe this does not count as an exception to the rule) and Luke Skywalker
in Episode VI, black costumes seem to be reserved exclusively for the darker Empire and its Emperor. The use of language and dialect was intentionally dramatized — the Empire minions almost always spoke with British accents, while most of the Rebels spoke with American accents, except Obi-Wan. Likewise, all Imperial officers were outfitted in tailor-cut Nazi-like uniforms, with the Rebels, except for fighter-pilots, in looser and more ascetic overalls. It has been suggested as well that the Imperials/Rebels axis could also be a reference to real-world Reactionaries
vs. Revolution
aries, but this theory is speculation.
The Galactic Republic is noted as a morally ambiguous entity. As such, the Republic characters speak in a mix of American and British accents. Generally, the American accents predominate at the low end of the Republic's hierarchy while the British predominates at the top. In addition, the clone troopers speak in New Zealand accents, which is a possible indicator of the clones' own moral ambiguity and amorality, since this accent is variously described as being in between British and American. As the Republic goes further down its path to the Empire, its ships and vehicles become less colorful, more monochromatic, industrial and less stylized. In Episode II, the clone armor has classical, rounded stylistic influence. However, by Episode III, the armor has lost a lot of its elaborate detail in favor of a menacing "skeletal" appearance. At the end of Episode III, the Republic's star destroyers and starfighters are totally colorless, steel-gray and sharply styled, symbolizing the final transformation of the Republic into the militaristic Empire.
Also, the greeting of those on the side of light, "May the Force be with you
", is similar to the Christian greeting, "May the Lord be with you", used responsively throughout Christian liturgies such as the Roman Catholic Mass.
Furthermore, it is ingenuity, adaptation and diversity that largely dictate how effective or just the use of technology will be, rather than a particular piece of technology merely being powerful or technically advanced, or being possessed by the dominant culture. For example, the Ewoks are underestimated by the Empire because it regards them as little more than animals, but they are revealed to be intelligent beings that are adapted to their environment and are experts in utilizing their local technologies: they have a culture, and the ability to create a variety of traps and possess numerous weapons such as slings and bows and arrows. The Rebels have also adapted their gear with camouflage to blend into their surroundings, whereas the Empire's stormtroopers blunder through the forest in their usual synthetic, bright white armor, and pilot giant two-legged walkers that, although they possess superior firepower, seem ill-suited to irregular terrain and are easily tripped.
A certain union between technology and nature exists in the concept of droids. Although R2-D2
and C-3PO
are prominent and lovable characters, it is stated that droids cannot actually "think". Lucas has said the creatively-thinking clone army was meant to contrast the droid army of the Trade Federation
, which is inferior because droids are clumsy and can only follow their original programming. In this way technology is always regarded as nothing more than a tool to be used or misused by living beings. This stands in stark contrast to other science fiction such as The Matrix
, Blade Runner
, and Star Trek
, in which the possibility of artificial intelligence
being as aware and valid as natural intelligence is explored in depth.
George Lucas
George Walton Lucas, Jr. is an American film producer, screenwriter, and director, and entrepreneur. He is the founder, chairman and chief executive of Lucasfilm. He is best known as the creator of the space opera franchise Star Wars and the archaeologist-adventurer character Indiana Jones...
' creation of the Star Wars
Star Wars
Star Wars is an American epic space opera film series created by George Lucas. The first film in the series was originally released on May 25, 1977, under the title Star Wars, by 20th Century Fox, and became a worldwide pop culture phenomenon, followed by two sequels, released at three-year...
saga was influenced by mythology
Mythology
The term mythology can refer either to the study of myths, or to a body or collection of myths. As examples, comparative mythology is the study of connections between myths from different cultures, whereas Greek mythology is the body of myths from ancient Greece...
, philosophy
Philosophy
Philosophy is the study of general and fundamental problems, such as those connected with existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language. Philosophy is distinguished from other ways of addressing such problems by its critical, generally systematic approach and its reliance on rational...
, and religion
Religion
Religion is a collection of cultural systems, belief systems, and worldviews that establishes symbols that relate humanity to spirituality and, sometimes, to moral values. Many religions have narratives, symbols, traditions and sacred histories that are intended to give meaning to life or to...
and the popularity of the film series inevitably led to even more comparisons being made.
Star Wars
Many of the themes within Star Wars reflect elements of Greek tragedy (OedipusOedipus
Oedipus was a mythical Greek king of Thebes. He fulfilled a prophecy that said he would kill his father and marry his mother, and thus brought disaster on his city and family...
, House of Atreus), Arthurian Legend, Roman mythology
Roman mythology
Roman mythology is the body of traditional stories pertaining to ancient Rome's legendary origins and religious system, as represented in the literature and visual arts of the Romans...
, and Japanese chambara such as the prominence of prophecy and the inability to control one's destiny. For example, Luke Skywalker
Luke Skywalker
Luke Skywalker is a fictional character and the main protagonist of the original film trilogy of the Star Wars franchise, where he is portrayed by Mark Hamill. He is introduced in Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, in which he is forced to leave home, and finds himself apprenticed to the Jedi master...
's relationship with his father
Darth Vader
Darth Vader is a central character in the Star Wars saga, appearing as one of the main antagonists in the original trilogy and as the main protagonist in the prequel trilogy....
is very reminiscent of Greek tragedy, while the original film contained elements which were interpreted by some as analogous of the Arthurian myths: Luke's lightsaber (a "magic sword") was inherited from his father, just as Excalibur
Excalibur
Excalibur is the legendary sword of King Arthur, sometimes attributed with magical powers or associated with the rightful sovereignty of Great Britain. Sometimes Excalibur and the Sword in the Stone are said to be the same weapon, but in most versions they are considered separate. The sword was...
once belonged to Arthur's father. The wise mentor, Obi-Wan Kenobi
Obi-Wan Kenobi
Obi-Wan Kenobi is a fictional character in the Star Wars universe. He is one of several primary characters in the Star Wars series. Along with Darth Vader, R2-D2, and C-3PO, he is one of the few major characters to appear in all six Star Wars films...
, can be seen as a Merlin figure; and a round "Chess" table appears aboard the Millennium Falcon
Millennium Falcon
The Millennium Falcon is a spacecraft in the Star Wars universe commanded by smuggler Han Solo and his Wookiee first mate, Chewbacca...
.
Many concepts featured in the saga also feature prominently in Persian mythology
Persian mythology
Persian mythology are traditional tales and stories of ancient origin, some involving extraordinary or supernatural beings. Drawn from the legendary past of the Iranian cultural continent which especially consists of the state of Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan and Central Asia, they reflect the...
. A central theme of the story concerns the struggle between the forces of good against the forces of evil – this good-versus-evil duality is a central concept of Persian mythology and Zoroastrianism
Zoroastrianism
Zoroastrianism is a religion and philosophy based on the teachings of prophet Zoroaster and was formerly among the world's largest religions. It was probably founded some time before the 6th century BCE in Greater Iran.In Zoroastrianism, the Creator Ahura Mazda is all good, and no evil...
; in which the benevolent creator deity Ahura Mazda
Ahura Mazda
Ahura Mazdā is the Avestan name for a divinity of the Old Iranian religion who was proclaimed the uncreated God by Zoroaster, the founder of Zoroastrianism...
is locked in a constant cosmic struggle against his antithesis, Angra Mainyu
Angra Mainyu
Angra Mainyu is the Avestan-language name of Zoroastrianism's hypostasis of the "destructive spirit". The Middle Persian equivalent is Ahriman.-In Zoroaster's revelation:...
.
The Star Wars films also show considerable similarity to Asian Wuxia "Kung Fu" films. In films of this genre, the protagonist almost always begins with a clear objective to avenge the death of someone dear (an old master, his father, or his entire family). Starting as an apprentice, he grows to become the most powerful Master of his art in Kung Fu and rightfully settles old scores inflicted to his loved ones. The influence of Japanese pathos is obvious in the technique of the lightsaber
Lightsaber
A lightsaber is a fictional weapon in the Star Wars universe, a "laser sword." It consists of a polished metal hilt which projects a blade of light about 1.33 metres long. The lightsaber is the signature weapon of the Jedi order and their Sith counterparts, both of whom can use them for close...
being similar to the use of the Japanese Samurai
Samurai
is the term for the military nobility of pre-industrial Japan. According to translator William Scott Wilson: "In Chinese, the character 侍 was originally a verb meaning to wait upon or accompany a person in the upper ranks of society, and this is also true of the original term in Japanese, saburau...
swords, and the etiquette-conscious Jedi humility to the Japanese bows in greetings (the word Jedi comes from the Japanese term "Jidai Geki", which translates as "period drama"(see Jedi). The Jedi also live by a code of conduct and battle similar to the Samurai Code (or Bushido
Bushido
, meaning "Way of the Warrior-Knight", is a Japanese word which is used to describe a uniquely Japanese code of conduct and a way of the samurai life, loosely analogous to the concept of chivalry. It originates from the samurai moral code and stresses frugality, loyalty, martial arts mastery, and...
) as well as providing protection without being soldiers for a particular Nation or Government, which could also be related to Shaolin Monks.
Philosophy and religion
The essential trademark of Star Wars philosophy is its reliance on the ForceForce (Star Wars)
The Force is a binding, metaphysical and ubiquitous power in the fictional universe of the Star Wars galaxy created by George Lucas. Mentioned in the first film in the series, it is integral to all subsequent incarnations of Star Wars, including the expanded universe of comic books, novels, and...
.
The essence of the Sith/Jedi moral dichotomy
In Episode IVStar Wars Episode IV: A New Hope
Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, originally released as Star Wars, is a 1977 American epic space opera film, written and directed by George Lucas. It is the first of six films released in the Star Wars saga: two subsequent films complete the original trilogy, while a prequel trilogy completes the...
, Obi-Wan first explains the dichotomy of good and evil encompassed in the Force. He tells Luke that "For over a thousand generations the Jedi Knights were the guardians of peace and justice in the Old Republic." Then moments later he contrasts the Jedi
Jedi
The Jedi are characters in the Star Wars universe and the series's main protagonists. The Jedi use a power called the Force and weapons called lightsabers, which emit a controlled energy flow in the shape of a sword, in order to serve and protect the Republic and the galaxy at large from conflict...
with the actions of Darth Vader: "He betrayed and murdered your father. Now the Jedi are all but extinct. Vader was seduced by the dark side of the Force." Little other doctrine is expounded on in Episode IV, nevertheless, the violent nature of Darth Vader
Darth Vader
Darth Vader is a central character in the Star Wars saga, appearing as one of the main antagonists in the original trilogy and as the main protagonist in the prequel trilogy....
is viewed in contrast with the mostly passive behavior of Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Of all of the films, Episode V contains the most thorough explanations of the nature of the Force. During Luke's training on Dagobah
Dagobah
Dagobah is a fictional planet in the Star Wars films, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. It also makes an appearance in a deleted scene from Revenge of the Sith....
, Yoda
Yoda
Yoda is a fictional character in the Star Wars universe, appearing in the second and third original films, as well as all three prequel trilogy films. A renowned Jedi master, Yoda made his first on-screen appearance in Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back where he is responsible for...
states, "A Jedi's strength flows from the Force. But beware of the dark side. Anger...fear...aggression. The dark side of the Force are they. Easily they flow, quick to join you in a fight. If once you start down the dark path, forever will it dominate your destiny, consume you it will, as it did Obi-Wan's apprentice." Luke then says, "Vader. Is the dark side stronger?" to which Yoda replies "No...no...no. Quicker, easier, more seductive." And Luke again asks "But how am I to know the good side from the bad?" and Yoda replies "You will know. When you are calm, at peace. Passive. A Jedi uses the Force for knowledge and defense, never for attack." (Yet Lucas states in the commentary for Episode II: Attack of the Clones
Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones
Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones is a 2002 American epic space opera film directed by George Lucas and written by Lucas and Jonathan Hales. It is the fifth film to be released in the Star Wars saga and the second in terms of the series' internal chronology...
, that the dark side
Dark side (Star Wars)
The dark side of the Force is a prominent moral, philosophical, and psychic concept in the Star Wars universe. It is introduced in Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, and appears in all subsequent Star Wars fiction...
is more powerful. "We're cementing [Anakin's] determination to become the most powerful Jedi. The only way you can really do that is to go to the dark side because the dark side is more powerful. If you want the ultimate power, you really have to go to the stronger side, which is the dark side." Some speculate this is a verbalization of Anakin's rationalizations and motives, or that Yoda was attempting to protect Luke from following the same path as his father; nonetheless Lucas seems to be speaking directly to the nature of the Force as it operates in the universe he created. Additionally, during the DVD supplemental features for Episode III: Revenge of The Sith
Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith is a 2005 American epic space opera film written and directed by George Lucas. It is the sixth and final film released in the Star Wars saga and the third in terms of the series' internal chronology....
, when discussing the lightsaber duels, it is explained that Anakin now has the ultimate skill level (one level above even his own mentor, Obi-Wan Kenobi) because Anakin has become a Sith. Lucas therefore may be referring to the power of the dark side in purely physical, combat-related terms, while Yoda's belief is that the two forces are of equal power more generally).
Star Wars stresses the self-destructive nature of fear, anger, hate, selfishness, and lust for power. In Episode I, Yoda
Yoda
Yoda is a fictional character in the Star Wars universe, appearing in the second and third original films, as well as all three prequel trilogy films. A renowned Jedi master, Yoda made his first on-screen appearance in Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back where he is responsible for...
summarizes stating, "Fear is the path to the dark side: fear leads to anger, anger leads to hate, hate leads to suffering." Patience, discipline, humility, monasticism
Monasticism
Monasticism is a religious way of life characterized by the practice of renouncing worldly pursuits to fully devote one's self to spiritual work...
, respect for one's elders, peace with one's self, trust in things spiritual over things physical, and self-sacrifice are extolled as virtues. However, a stoic
STOIC
STOIC was a variant of Forth.It started out at the MIT and Harvard Biomedical Engineering Centre in Boston, and was written in the mid 1970s by Jonathan Sachs...
position of setting aside personal feelings for others in order to bring about a greater good is also emphasized. For example, Luke Skywalker
Luke Skywalker
Luke Skywalker is a fictional character and the main protagonist of the original film trilogy of the Star Wars franchise, where he is portrayed by Mark Hamill. He is introduced in Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, in which he is forced to leave home, and finds himself apprenticed to the Jedi master...
is told to remain on Dagobah
Dagobah
Dagobah is a fictional planet in the Star Wars films, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. It also makes an appearance in a deleted scene from Revenge of the Sith....
to complete his training rather than rescue his friends from Cloud City, because doing so will "destroy all for which they have fought and suffered."
Similarities to various religions
This aligns with the philosophy of some religions that emphasize rational thought and meditation as the path to enlightenment, as opposed to the "dark side" of violent passion and emotion. It also aligns with secular Enlightenment thought, based in reason (the light side) and passionate and often violent pre-World War I romanticism (the dark side).Undoubtedly however, the strongest influence is Taoist philosophy, and secondarily Zen
Zen
Zen is a school of Mahāyāna Buddhism founded by the Buddhist monk Bodhidharma. The word Zen is from the Japanese pronunciation of the Chinese word Chán , which in turn is derived from the Sanskrit word dhyāna, which can be approximately translated as "meditation" or "meditative state."Zen...
Buddhism, which inherited much from Taoism. The light and dark side of the Force are analogous to the Yin and Yang
Yin and yang
In Asian philosophy, the concept of yin yang , which is often referred to in the West as "yin and yang", is used to describe how polar opposites or seemingly contrary forces are interconnected and interdependent in the natural world, and how they give rise to each other in turn. Opposites thus only...
duality of the Tao
Tao
Dao or Tao is a Chinese word meaning 'way', 'path', 'route', or sometimes more loosely, 'doctrine' or 'principle'...
; the Force to T'ai chi and Qi
Qi
In traditional Chinese culture, qì is an active principle forming part of any living thing. Qi is frequently translated as life energy, lifeforce, or energy flow. Qi is the central underlying principle in traditional Chinese medicine and martial arts...
. The practitioners of Taoism and Qigong
Qigong
Qigong or chi kung is a practice of aligning breath, movement, and awareness for exercise, healing, and meditation...
, according to Taoist annals, can live upwards of 200 years. Many true Taoist masters eventually became "hsien ren " or spirit-like beings, immortals who could partake and interact in the day-to-day earthly activities, not unlike what Obi-Wan and Yoda become after their passing away, interacting and participating indirectly in the lives of the living. Taoism emphasizes smooth flow of the Qi originating from a balance of the Yin and Yang forces in all manifestations of life, including the human anatomy and the environment. The similarities with the duality of the Sith and Jedi being the dark and light extremes of the Force, which Anakin Skywalker, the "chosen one" is to finally "bring into balance."
There are also similarities between the Jedi and ordained religious instructors. The Jedi Council
Jedi Council
The Jedi High Council is a fictional institution from the Star Wars film series. The Jedi Council are the strongest members of the Jedi Order, and are elected to lead the Jedi.-History:...
determines who can be trained. Then through both group studies and a mentor
Mentor
In Greek mythology, Mentor was the son of Alcimus or Anchialus. In his old age Mentor was a friend of Odysseus who placed Mentor and Odysseus' foster-brother Eumaeus in charge of his son Telemachus, and of Odysseus' palace, when Odysseus left for the Trojan War.When Athena visited Telemachus she...
–protégé relationship they learn the mysteries of the Force (which are not disseminated to the general population) and how to use it. Finally upon the completion of their training the student is tested by the Jedi council through a series of "Trials", after which the Jedi council confers upon them the rank of Jedi Knight through a special ceremony. Numerous parallels can be drawn to monastic orders. The manner by which Jedi fight evil using the Force may also be said to compare to the Christian idea of clergy calling on the power of God to exorcise demons. This perception is reinforced by Han Solo's sarcastic description of the Force in Episode IV as "all-powerful", which it isn't. In fact, the Force is more like the "life force" or the "Brahman" of Hinduism. It is apparent, however, that Jedi rely on their own mastery of the impersonal Force to exert power, while the Christian traditionally relies only on the mercy of a personal God, and not on any innate ability or "skill" as Force use requires.
The Force, in some occasions and descriptions, seems to be rather attentive and conscious despite the initial perception of it as impersonal. For instance, the Force itself impregnates Shmi Skywalker resulting in the birth of Anakin, the "Chosen One"; this is strongly similar to the Nativity Story of Christianity and denotes at least some personality or consciousness to the Force, at least to the point that it is conscious but rarely personal with the universe. This parallel is undermined by the discussion of Darth Plagueis, who was said by Palpatine to be "so wise and so powerful that he could actually use the Force to influence the midi-chlorians to create life."
Clearly, a "Chosen One" of the Force is similar to the Christian view of Jesus
Jesus
Jesus of Nazareth , commonly referred to as Jesus Christ or simply as Jesus or Christ, is the central figure of Christianity...
, in that it is an "Anointed" or "Chosen" or "Elect" One that redeems the Light and brings greater balance to "the Force". Christ
Christ
Christ is the English term for the Greek meaning "the anointed one". It is a translation of the Hebrew , usually transliterated into English as Messiah or Mashiach...
's death on the cross as a means of deliverance is also echoed by the destruction of the old republic and the Jedi
Jedi
The Jedi are characters in the Star Wars universe and the series's main protagonists. The Jedi use a power called the Force and weapons called lightsabers, which emit a controlled energy flow in the shape of a sword, in order to serve and protect the Republic and the galaxy at large from conflict...
order as part of the fulfilment of Anakin
Darth Vader
Darth Vader is a central character in the Star Wars saga, appearing as one of the main antagonists in the original trilogy and as the main protagonist in the prequel trilogy....
's destiny to bring balance to the force. Furthermore, Christ is considered by Christians to have had no father and to have been conceived by the Holy Ghost, just as Anakin
Darth Vader
Darth Vader is a central character in the Star Wars saga, appearing as one of the main antagonists in the original trilogy and as the main protagonist in the prequel trilogy....
, the supposed "Chosen One", is assumed to have been conceived by midi-chlorians, as he too had no father.
The monastic tradition from Christianity
Christianity
Christianity is a monotheistic religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus as presented in canonical gospels and other New Testament writings...
, Hinduism
Hinduism
Hinduism is the predominant and indigenous religious tradition of the Indian Subcontinent. Hinduism is known to its followers as , amongst many other expressions...
, and Buddhism
Buddhism
Buddhism is a religion and philosophy encompassing a variety of traditions, beliefs and practices, largely based on teachings attributed to Siddhartha Gautama, commonly known as the Buddha . The Buddha lived and taught in the northeastern Indian subcontinent some time between the 6th and 4th...
religions is echoed in the strict code by which the Jedi live. The Jedi do not seek after material possessions. Both Obi-Wan and Yoda spent considerable time living as hermits. The Jedi code also forbids romantic love of any kind - making it similar to Catholic vows of celibacy
Celibacy
Celibacy is a personal commitment to avoiding sexual relations, in particular a vow from marriage. Typically celibacy involves avoiding all romantic relationships of any kind. An individual may choose celibacy for religious reasons, such as is the case for priests in some religions, for reasons of...
.
The ethical values of the Jedi Order also bear similarities to that of the philosopher Immanuel Kant: whose ethical theory is based around actions motivated by duty not passion, and includes many moral maxims similar to Jedi values. The reverse can also be applied to the Sith
Sith
-Sith:The Sith is a name applied to certain characters in the Star Wars universe. In the films they are the central antagonists. They are capable of using the dark side of the Force.-The Invention of the Sith:...
, i.e. Sith are motivated by passion not duty.
Governance
The Sith and the Jedi also greatly differ in how they govern. The Sith are portrayed as wanting absolute power and then ruling with an iron fist. If absolute power is not yet obtained the Sith will manipulate and deceive scores of people until they do obtain it. Once in control they will kill underlings that disappoint them and rule through fear. However, because of their desire for power (which is an intrinsic characteristic of the Sith), they are always plotting the demise of their master or apprentice, whatever their situation may be. Vader was never a true Sith - it is strongly hinted that although he wanted to overthrow Sidious (consistent with the weak relationship between Sith master and apprentice), his motivation was originally a need to restore order rather than take power. However, it is made clear in both Attack of the ClonesStar Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones
Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones is a 2002 American epic space opera film directed by George Lucas and written by Lucas and Jonathan Hales. It is the fifth film to be released in the Star Wars saga and the second in terms of the series' internal chronology...
and Revenge of the Sith
Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith is a 2005 American epic space opera film written and directed by George Lucas. It is the sixth and final film released in the Star Wars saga and the third in terms of the series' internal chronology....
that he considers absolute power a legitimate means to achieve cooperation among all species and factions in the galaxy. In Revenge of the Sith, he reveals his desire to rule the galaxy with his wife Padme, and thereby to bring order and peace to the Republic (later the Empire), perhaps becoming some sort of benevolent despot. In Episode V, Vader again expresses this desire, this time inviting his son, Luke, to rule with him. In both instances, there is no question that Darth Vader himself would wield absolute power over the forces of the Empire.
In contrast, the Jedi govern through a shared power structure with many "checks and balances". As Jedi they govern with a council based on merit and seniority. In the Republic they allowed themselves to be deployed on missions according to the wishes of the Chancellor and they did not seek to manipulate the activities of the Senate. The Jedi are almost completely devoid of jealousy and competitive ambition within their ranks.
Moral ambiguity in Star Wars
There is, however, some sense of moral ambiguity associated with ethosEthos
Ethos is a Greek word meaning "character" that is used to describe the guiding beliefs or ideals that characterize a community, nation, or ideology. The Greeks also used this word to refer to the power of music to influence its hearer's emotions, behaviors, and even morals. Early Greek stories of...
of Star Wars. In Episode VI, Obi-Wan posthumously admits to deceiving Luke. Obi-Wan asserts that "many of the truths we cling to depend greatly on our own point of view." While Anakin's character changes dramatically when he transitions to Darth Vader, he is still Luke's father. This ambiguity is what makes it possible for Luke to see the good in his father and so to save him. Lucas admits that the distinction between good and evil is relative; it mainly serves the instructive aims of every legend. With Vader's final act at the end of Episode VI another thesis is reversed: that of the choice of the good or the bad side being definitive. Anakin's life shows how a mistake can be redeemed.
However, Yoda and Mace Windu both defeat Count Dooku and Darth Sidious, respectively, while still maintaining control; although it should be noted that Mace's use of Vaapad (Form VII of lightsaber combat) required Mace to accept, channel and "boomerang" Sidious' dark energy, by definition a Dark Side concept. Also, Obi-Wan Kenobi defeated Anakin Skywalker only when Anakin's judgement became impaired by an over-estimation of his own power, engendered by the dark side. In addition, Kenobi defeated Darth Maul by feeling the Force and conquering his anger. It is also made plain in Episode V that Luke Skywalker is negatively influenced by a tendency towards impatience and anger during his confrontation with Darth Vader. From these cases it would seem that control is "good" and anger "bad". Due to these seemingly contradictory factors, it is difficult to understand exactly what kinds of Force the Jedi consider legitimate. This unclear boundary between the light and dark sides (and hence, the ease of transition to evil) may or may not have some bearing on the fact that Jedi are sometimes tempted by the dark side as soon as they become sufficiently powerful.
Religious and ideological motifs
A shift from Eastern religion to Western religion, however, occurs between the original and the prequel trilogies. Old Republic Jedi appear to bear a stronger kinship to medieval knights than to Taoist monks. The virgin birth and the prophecy of a chosen-one (which Anakin fulfills), born to a virgin, is very similar to the concept of the ChristChrist
Christ is the English term for the Greek meaning "the anointed one". It is a translation of the Hebrew , usually transliterated into English as Messiah or Mashiach...
. The final scenes of Episode III add a symbolic emphasis to this role. After Anakin is "killed" on Mustafar
Mustafar
Mustafar is a fictional planet in the Star Wars universe. It is depicted in Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith.The planet is covered by hundreds of volcanic caldera, most of which are in a state of constant eruption...
, a robed emperor mourns over his "dead" protégé, in a composition reminiscent of the Pietà
Pietà
The Pietà is a subject in Christian art depicting the Virgin Mary cradling the dead body of Jesus, most often found in sculpture. As such, it is a particular form of the Lamentation of Christ, a scene from the Passion of Christ found in cycles of the Life of Christ...
. This would suggest that the "dead" Anakin will be resurrected. The hierarchy and role of the Jedi Knights also bears a strong resemblance to the Knights Templar
Knights Templar
The Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon , commonly known as the Knights Templar, the Order of the Temple or simply as Templars, were among the most famous of the Western Christian military orders...
of medieval Christendom.
The film series started in Episode IV with the obvious cliché — Darth Vader in matte and shiny black outfit, with Leia Organa in pristine white robes, alluding to the concepts of good versus evil. With the exception of Anakin in the teenage years in Episode II and III (although one could arguably say that he was a bit "destined" for the Sith, so maybe this does not count as an exception to the rule) and Luke Skywalker
Luke Skywalker
Luke Skywalker is a fictional character and the main protagonist of the original film trilogy of the Star Wars franchise, where he is portrayed by Mark Hamill. He is introduced in Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, in which he is forced to leave home, and finds himself apprenticed to the Jedi master...
in Episode VI, black costumes seem to be reserved exclusively for the darker Empire and its Emperor. The use of language and dialect was intentionally dramatized — the Empire minions almost always spoke with British accents, while most of the Rebels spoke with American accents, except Obi-Wan. Likewise, all Imperial officers were outfitted in tailor-cut Nazi-like uniforms, with the Rebels, except for fighter-pilots, in looser and more ascetic overalls. It has been suggested as well that the Imperials/Rebels axis could also be a reference to real-world Reactionaries
Reactionary
The term reactionary refers to viewpoints that seek to return to a previous state in a society. The term is meant to describe one end of a political spectrum whose opposite pole is "radical". While it has not been generally considered a term of praise it has been adopted as a self-description by...
vs. Revolution
Revolution
A revolution is a fundamental change in power or organizational structures that takes place in a relatively short period of time.Aristotle described two types of political revolution:...
aries, but this theory is speculation.
The Galactic Republic is noted as a morally ambiguous entity. As such, the Republic characters speak in a mix of American and British accents. Generally, the American accents predominate at the low end of the Republic's hierarchy while the British predominates at the top. In addition, the clone troopers speak in New Zealand accents, which is a possible indicator of the clones' own moral ambiguity and amorality, since this accent is variously described as being in between British and American. As the Republic goes further down its path to the Empire, its ships and vehicles become less colorful, more monochromatic, industrial and less stylized. In Episode II, the clone armor has classical, rounded stylistic influence. However, by Episode III, the armor has lost a lot of its elaborate detail in favor of a menacing "skeletal" appearance. At the end of Episode III, the Republic's star destroyers and starfighters are totally colorless, steel-gray and sharply styled, symbolizing the final transformation of the Republic into the militaristic Empire.
Also, the greeting of those on the side of light, "May the Force be with you
May the Force be with you
The expression "May the Force be with you" has achieved cult status and is symbolic of the Star Wars legacy. The line has been said by at least one character in each of the Star Wars movies...
", is similar to the Christian greeting, "May the Lord be with you", used responsively throughout Christian liturgies such as the Roman Catholic Mass.
Technology
Technology, like the Force, is represented as a double-edged blade, depending on the intentions and characters of those who wield it. Technology, like the Force, is an unchanging and neutral aspect of life, but whoever is manipulating it will draw on its dark or light aspects depending on what kind of person they are. The movie shows the Empire as misusing technology to suit its own selfish agenda, at the cost of other people's freedoms; and it depicts most of the Rebels as utilizing more-or-less the same types of technology in order to fight the Empire and stand up for freedom and justice.Furthermore, it is ingenuity, adaptation and diversity that largely dictate how effective or just the use of technology will be, rather than a particular piece of technology merely being powerful or technically advanced, or being possessed by the dominant culture. For example, the Ewoks are underestimated by the Empire because it regards them as little more than animals, but they are revealed to be intelligent beings that are adapted to their environment and are experts in utilizing their local technologies: they have a culture, and the ability to create a variety of traps and possess numerous weapons such as slings and bows and arrows. The Rebels have also adapted their gear with camouflage to blend into their surroundings, whereas the Empire's stormtroopers blunder through the forest in their usual synthetic, bright white armor, and pilot giant two-legged walkers that, although they possess superior firepower, seem ill-suited to irregular terrain and are easily tripped.
A certain union between technology and nature exists in the concept of droids. Although R2-D2
R2-D2
R2-D2 , is a character in the Star Wars universe. An astromech droid, R2-D2 is a major character throughout all six Star Wars films. Along with his droid companion C-3PO, he joins or supports Anakin Skywalker, Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Obi-Wan Kenobi in various points in the saga...
and C-3PO
C-3PO
C-3PO is a robot character from the Star Wars universe who appears in both the original Star Wars films and the prequel trilogy. He is also a major character in the television show Droids, and appears frequently in the series' "Expanded Universe" of novels, comic books, and video games...
are prominent and lovable characters, it is stated that droids cannot actually "think". Lucas has said the creatively-thinking clone army was meant to contrast the droid army of the Trade Federation
Trade Federation
The Trade Federation is a fictional organization in the Star Wars universe at the time of the Galactic Republic. It appears in the franchise's three prequel movies and the Star Wars Expanded Universe...
, which is inferior because droids are clumsy and can only follow their original programming. In this way technology is always regarded as nothing more than a tool to be used or misused by living beings. This stands in stark contrast to other science fiction such as The Matrix
The Matrix
The Matrix is a 1999 science fiction-action film written and directed by Larry and Andy Wachowski, starring Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss, Joe Pantoliano, and Hugo Weaving...
, Blade Runner
Blade Runner
Blade Runner is a 1982 American science fiction film directed by Ridley Scott and starring Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, and Sean Young. The screenplay, written by Hampton Fancher and David Peoples, is loosely based on the novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K...
, and Star Trek
Star Trek
Star Trek is an American science fiction entertainment franchise created by Gene Roddenberry. The core of Star Trek is its six television series: The Original Series, The Animated Series, The Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, Voyager, and Enterprise...
, in which the possibility of artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence is the intelligence of machines and the branch of computer science that aims to create it. AI textbooks define the field as "the study and design of intelligent agents" where an intelligent agent is a system that perceives its environment and takes actions that maximize its...
being as aware and valid as natural intelligence is explored in depth.
External links
- http://www.nasm.si.edu/exhibitions/StarWars/sw-unit1.htm - A page that reproduces the National Air and Space MuseumNational Air and Space MuseumThe National Air and Space Museum of the Smithsonian Institution holds the largest collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft in the world. It was established in 1976. Located in Washington, D.C., United States, it is a center for research into the history and science of aviation and...
exhibit "Star Wars: The Magic of Myth". - Star Wars Episode III: Jedi Spirituality
- The Star Wars Phenomena & The Revenge of the Sith
- The Other Side of Star Wars
- StarWars: A New Heap - Philosophy of Art in Star Wars by John Powers