Character of the Week

Anakin Skywalker

Never before has a rise to fame, fall from grace, and return, been so highly anticipated and surprising at the same time.  This week we honor the Chosen One with the Character of the Week title.

Anakin’s storyline has truly been cemented into Star Wars history as an event that could withstand the test of time.  Yes, before him there had been other notable Jedi throughout history making incredible events take place, but none have shaken the galaxy quite like Anakin’s turn to the Dark Side.  With Palpatine guiding this young impressionable Jedi, they overthrew the Galactic Republic and usurped the Jedi’s power in one night.  This was something Palpatine had been planning to accomplish for years but it wasn’t until Anakin rolled around that he was able to make things work. 

If you pair Darth Vader’s story in Episodes 4,5, and 6 with Anakin’s story in Episodes 1,2, 3, and the Clone Wars you get a full understanding of his tragic turn.  Well, maybe not a full understanding,  but you do get to see every step along the way.

Regardless of his turn Anakin, was truly a great leader.  He was the Commander of the 501st Legion throughout the Clone Wars and, not surprisingly, he led them on many successful missions.  His leadership style reflected the “I wouldn’t ask you to do anything I wouldn’t do” mentality and he proved it.  Time and time again he would put his life on the line so his Clones wouldn’t die, and, in return, they respected him for that.  Like many Jedi, but not all, Anaking treated his Clones like they were more than expendable soldiers.  Anakin, however, probabaly took it a step further and treated the 501st like they were his brothers.  Combine his relationship with the 501st and his relationship with his Padawan Ahsoka, and you can truly see how much Anakin grows and matures as a young Jedi.

Anakin spent his life with the Chosen One moniker floating around his head, and, while many mistakes led to his turn to the Dark Side, he had some incredible bright moments in his career.  We hope you join us this week as we celebrate this talented Jedi with the Character of the Week title.

Thank you for your time and remember, from the ashes a fire shall be woken.

– The Wandering One