One crucial scene in Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith shows a surprising moment where Sith Lords act differently than expected. The movie fulfills the dark foreshadowing from Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones by depicting Anakin Skywalker's descent into the dark side and his transformation into Darth Vader. It unveils important information about Anakin's decision to join the Sith and how he receives his new Sith name.
Anakin, fearing for Padmé's life, turns against Jedi Master Mace Windu and aligns himself with Windu's killer, Palpatine (now known as Darth Sidious). As Anakin begins his training as a Sith Lord, he starts by eliminating Jedi and Separatist Council members and adopting a new identity. Palpatine bestows upon Anakin the title of Darth, followed by the addition of "Vader" to finalize his Sith name. The specific reason behind Palpatine choosing the name Darth Vader remains a mystery in the film.
How Palpatine Gives Darth Vader His Name
Emperor Palpatine in Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith. - How Palpatine Gives Darth Vader His Name
In the novelization of Revenge of the Sith in the Star Wars Legends continuity by Matthew Stover, it is revealed how Palpatine came up with the name "Vader." Palpatine delves into the dark side of the Force and asks for a name, to which it responds with Vader. Interestingly, this process of naming Sith Lords is a rare instance where Sith do not control the Force but instead listen to it, a behavior typically associated with Jedi.
Similarly, in James Luceno's Darth Plagueis, Darth Plagueis bestows upon Palpatine the title of Darth Sidious in a similar manner.
The Sith Approach To Naming Contradicts Everything They Stand For
Palpatine and Darth Plagueis in Darth Plagueis. - The Sith Approach To Naming Contradicts Everything They Stand For
Sith Lords are known for their use of the dark side of the Force, through which they impose their malevolent intentions on the universal energy that flows through the galaxy. Unlike the Jedi Knights who align themselves with the will of the Force, Sith Lords aim to dominate the Force and the entire galaxy. This dynamic often places the Jedi in a subservient role to the Sith, who manipulate the dark side to command the Force to their advantage.
Interestingly, the act of naming Sith Lords is a rare instance where the Sith relinquish control and instead listen to the will of the Force, a behavior more commonly associated with the Jedi.
The Sith and the Jedi have different beliefs and ways of life, but they also have some things in common. The first Sith were once Jedi who turned to the dark side and were kicked out of the Jedi Order. One thing both groups share is their use of lightsabers and knowledge of lightsaber combat forms. In "Revenge of the Sith," we see that both Jedi and Sith listen to the Force, although the Sith only do so in certain situations.
"Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith" can be streamed on Disney+.
Editor's P/S:
The article delves into the intriguing naming process of Sith Lords, revealing a surprising deviation from their usual domineering nature. In a rare act of submission, Sith Lords consult the Force for guidance in choosing their names, a practice more akin to the Jedi's reverence for the Force's will. This contrast highlights the multifaceted nature of the Force, capable of influencing both light and dark side users.
The article also emphasizes the enduring impact of "Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith," which continues to captivate audiences with its epic storytelling and exploration of the complex themes of good versus evil. The film's availability on Disney+ ensures its accessibility to new generations of fans, who can appreciate the timeless themes and spectacular visuals that have made the Star Wars saga a cultural phenomenon.
