The Star Wars franchise often overlooks the lesser-known characters, giving all the attention to a select few major figures. In the vast galaxy, the ordinary individuals rarely receive the recognition they deserve. While fans might recall Padme having a body double in her initial appearance, this double, named Sabé, played a crucial role beyond simply impersonating the queen. Regrettably, Sabé remains underappreciated.
The Phantom Menace receives criticism for its excessive focus on mundane aspects like trade negotiations and senate policies. It is peculiar for a film primarily targeting children to spend more time in corporate meetings than its predecessors. Nevertheless, within this widely despised movie's narrative, there are intriguing details even within these seemingly dull elements.
Who is Sabé?
Sabé, originally named Tsabin, was born on Naboo in 46 BBY, into a family of renowned musicians. Sent to Theed Conservatory to master the seven-string hallikset, Tsabin reluctantly pursued music to satisfy her parents. However, she yearned for more than a mere supporting role in a local orchestra. Her fortunes changed upon graduation from the Conservatory, coinciding with the time when citizens of Naboo gained the right to vote at the age of 14. Determined to explore new horizons, Tsabin embarked on a search for apprenticeships. During her quest, she was approached by Captain Panaka, the formidable leader of the queen's guard. To her surprise, Captain Panaka made an unusual request for her to postpone seeking apprenticeships until after the upcoming election, as he recognized a striking resemblance between Tsabin and a rising candidate named Padmé Amidala.
Who were Padme's handmaidens?
Following Queen Amidala's rise to power, Tsabin swiftly assumed the role of her trusted first handmaiden. Establishing a profound friendship with Padme, Tsabin's unwavering allegiance remained with her friend above all else. Just a fortnight after Padme's official coronation, she carefully handpicked four additional handmaidens. The talented artist Rabene, the brilliant scientist Eirtama, the skilled seamstress Suyan, and the dutiful page named Sashah were appointed as her dedicated personal security force. Unwavering in her trust, Padme relied on her handmaidens far more than she did on Panaka's men. Each of the five handmaidens possessed extensive combat training, all concealed beneath their coordinated cloaks. While Padme concealed her true identity from most, she revealed her real name to her loyal handmaidens. In order to maintain their anonymity, the handmaidens assumed new identities as well. Tsabin transformed into Sabé, Queen Amidala's most confided confidante.
Sabé's role as a double and emissary for the Queen extended beyond mere pretense. After Padme's tenure as queen ended, she represented Naboo in the Galactic Council. With Padme's public responsibilities reducing the necessity for a double, Sabé focused on liberating the slaves on Tatooine. Through her efforts, she gradually emancipated the impoverished populace. Sadly, Padme sent Sabé to Tatooine with a specific slave in mind - Anakin's mother, Shmi Skywalker. Despite Sabé's work, Shmi remained in bondage for a decade.
Following Padme's death, Sabé adopted her belief in the possibility of light in Darth Vader's soul. She went to great lengths with this belief, becoming an agent of Darth Vader when the Republic fell and the Empire rose. Initially angry at Anakin for killing Padme, it took time for Sabé to uncover Vader's true identity. Once she did, she informed Vader and helped him reluctantly perform acts of good while enforcing the Imperial agenda. Together, they demolished a colony led by a corrupt criminal, which housed former slaves.
How did Padme's deception work?
Sabé embarked on her journey as a shadow to Padme from a tender age. By the time she turned 14, she had meticulously absorbed every nuance of her mentor's behavior and manner of speech. This extensive preparation allowed Sabé to convincingly pose as the queen herself, successfully deceiving those unfamiliar with Amidala. Remarkably, Sabé was not alone in her role as a handmaiden doubling as Amidala's doppelgänger. Tragically, two of Padme's handmaidens lost their lives while disguised. The political landscape on Naboo is shrouded in secrecy and danger, evident through the constant attempts on Padme's life. Yet, Sabé and her fellow handmaidens enable Padme to deftly navigate multiple political crises simultaneously.
The life of Sabé is a captivating tale of dedication. From her early days, she devoted herself to safeguarding a politician who ultimately met a sudden demise. Undeterred, Sabé then pledged her loyalty to protect the very individual responsible for her mentor's untimely death. In spite of her unwavering affection for Padme, Sabé's love remained unrequited. Picture the saga of a young woman falling deeply in love with the influential politician she was trained to safeguard, and subsequently descending into the depths of the dark side to perpetuate her legacy. There is a wealth of complexity within Sabé, even though only glimpses of her remarkable journey were revealed on the grand stage.
