Grand Admiral Thrawn Creator's Solution to the Biggest Continuity Challenge

Article Overview

Thrawn's unquestioning loyalty to the Empire in Ahsoka is justified by his motivation to help the Chiss Ascendancy, as he believes the New Republic cannot support that goal.

Despite the flaws in Timothy Zahn's explanation, it is conceivable that Thrawn possesses information about the New Republic's current state thanks to the details provided by the Nightsisters. Assuming Thrawn is aware of the New Republic's demilitarization, his choice to resurrect the Empire can be interpreted as a strategic move to counter the Grysk, a potential formidable foe.

Thrawn creator Timothy Zahn has provided an explanation for the major Star Wars contradiction in Ahsoka. In Zahn's 1991 release, Heir to the Empire, Thrawn is introduced as a highly intelligent character with a captivating backstory. As a member of the Chiss race, he initially acts as a double agent for the Chiss Ascendancy while working for the Empire. However, Ahsoka presents a different portrayal of Thrawn, showing him to be fully committed to serving the Empire.

Fortunately, Zahn offers an explanation for Thrawn's abrupt change in motivation. According to writer Nate Manning from Star Wars News Net, Zahn provided a compelling solution during Twin Cities Con. Take a look at Manning's tweet below for more information.

Does Timothy Zahn's Explanation Work?

Zahn argues that Thrawn's loyalty to the Empire stems from his desire to safeguard the Chiss Ascendancy. Dismissing the New Republic's ability to protect the Chiss, Thrawn opts to reinstate the Empire and establish his own dominance as the all-powerful Grand Admiral.

Zahn's explanation of the situation still has some flaws. Ahsoka never discloses the extent of Thrawn's knowledge regarding the current state of the main galaxy during his exile. It is impossible for him to accurately gauge the true triumphs of the Empire or the New Republic, and he should not possess any information on the Chiss's recent developments. According to his understanding, the Chiss Ascendancy could potentially face the repercussions of the Empire's resurgence.

The Zahn's Thrawn Ascendancy book series delves deep into the Chiss Ascendancy and Grysk Hegemony.

Although it is uncertain, Thrawn might possess some knowledge. In Ahsoka, the Nightsisters provide him with information, and it is possible that they have insights into the status of the New Republic. While Thrawn may be reluctant to expose his true intentions by inquiring about the Chiss, his intellect enables him to uncover hidden elements within their information.

If Thrawn is aware of the New Republic's demilitarization, it would provide him with a motive to revive the Empire. His intention has always been to utilize military resources against the Grysk, who could potentially become the next significant adversaries in the Star Wars universe. By disarming the Republic, it would inadvertently fortify the Grysk's position, leaving Thrawn with limited options to resist them. Given his existing influence within the Empire, it is logical that he would endeavor to employ his forces in the primary galaxy. Depending on Thrawn's level of knowledge, Zahn's explanation effectively resolves a crucial plot inconsistency in Star Wars.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I appreciate Timothy Zahn's efforts to address the Thrawn inconsistency in the Star Wars universe. His explanation, though flawed, offers an intriguing perspective on Thrawn's motivations. Zahn's portrayal of Thrawn as a complex character torn between loyalty to the Chiss Ascendancy and the Empire adds depth to the character.

However, I believe there are still some unanswered questions regarding Thrawn's knowledge and intentions. It would be interesting to explore how Thrawn obtained information about the New Republic's demilitarization and the Grysk threat. Additionally, it would be beneficial to understand the Nightsisters' role in providing Thrawn with crucial information. Overall, while Zahn's explanation provides some clarity, further exploration of Thrawn's thought process and motivations would enhance the overall narrative.