The Ultimate Transformation: Ahsoka's Journey Reshapes Anakin Skywalker's Legacy

Warning! This article contains minor spoilers for Ahsoka episode 7.

Summary

The Clone Wars offered a more nuanced depiction of Anakin Skywalker, revealing his compassionate and valiant essence, which was previously obscured in the prequel trilogy. Ahsoka grappled with perceiving both facets of Anakin following her discovery of his transformation into Darth Vader. Nonetheless, her encounter in the World Between Worlds aided her in comprehending his inclination towards darkness and imperfections as a hero.

Ahsoka now acknowledges that Anakin, despite his training being focused on warfare due to the circumstances of war, was a skilled Jedi Master who prepared her for her journey.

Ahsoka episode 7, "Part Seven: Dreams and Madness," marks the completion of Dave Filoni's retcon of Anakin Skywalker, a process that has taken 15 years. The Star Wars prequel movies faced the challenge of portraying the tragic rise and fall of Anakin Skywalker while also making him a sympathetic character. The goal was to have the audience root for Anakin and not want to see him succumb to the dark side, despite his predetermined fate. However, the prequels did not fully achieve this objective, as they focused too much on Anakin's growing darkness rather than providing opportunities for the audience to truly relate to him.

Anakin's Fall Was Signposted Too Strongly In The Prequel Trilogy

The inevitability of Anakin's fall to the dark side was clearly established in the prequel trilogy. Although audiences already knew he would ultimately become Darth Vader, there was minimal suspense surrounding Anakin's journey. In Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones, he ruthlessly slaughtered an entire Tusken Raiders group upon his mother's demise, and his intense infatuation with Padmé Amidala went against the teachings of the Jedi Order. While viewers were aware of Anakin's fated descent, there was no ambiguity whatsoever. Right from the start, Anakin exhibited his darkness, leaving little room for showcasing a different side of him - until Star Wars: The Clone Wars.

The Clone Wars delved into the period between Attack of the Clones and Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, giving a deeper exploration of Anakin's character amidst his traumatic experiences. Rather than fleeting glimpses, the audience was treated to full episodes showcasing Anakin's compassionate nature, his friendships with Obi-Wan Kenobi, Captain Rex, and Ahsoka, and revealing his potential as one of the Order's greatest and most heroic Jedi. The show transformed Anakin Skywalker's fall from mere destiny to a tragic event in every sense.

After discovering Darth Vader's true identity, Ahsoka struggled to reconcile the two sides of Anakin Skywalker. All she could see was Vader and the darkness he represented. She could no longer cherish her memories of being Anakin's Padawan during the Clone Wars, as she could not comprehend how she had failed to perceive his transformation. A sense of guilt overwhelmed her, with doubts about whether she should have abandoned him when she left the Order. Similar to how the audience initially saw Anakin, Ahsoka saw only darkness in him and recognized her own failure – until now.

Ahsoka's Experience In The World Between Worlds Has Changed Her View On Anakin

In Ahsoka episode 5 "Shadow Warrior," Ahsoka encounters Anakin once again in the World Between Worlds - a separate dimension tied to the Force that merges all time and space. It is their first meeting since the final days of the Clone Wars, and to Ahsoka's surprise, Anakin resembles the person she once knew, rather than the embodiment of darkness he later became. As they revisit significant moments from Ahsoka's past during the Clone Wars, Anakin endeavors to impart a final lesson, revealing a profound truth - his capacity for darkness was an inherent part of him, alongside his kind, friendly, and protective nature. Ultimately, he was a flawed hero, and Ahsoka struggled to accept this fact previously.

Ahsoka carried the burden of guilt for abandoning him, believing she had overlooked the warning signs. However, she now realizes that the responsibility for Anakin's descent to the dark side rested not solely on her shoulders, but on his own choices, as well as Emperor Palpatine's influence. Making the decision to leave the Jedi Order, and consequently, Anakin, was the right path for her. Now, having truly comprehended the connection between the contrasting aspects of her former Jedi Master, she no longer carries the weight of regret.

Ahsoka (& Star Wars) Can Now Acknowledge That Anakin Was A Good Master

Both Ahsoka and the Star Wars franchise can now acknowledge that despite his flaws, Anakin Skywalker was a commendable Jedi Master. Ahsoka herself attests to this in Ahsoka episode 7, mentioning his thoughtful gesture of creating training holos that she continues to use. This act allows her to remember him fondly while enjoying their use. Anakin recognized the potential dangers she may face and thus prepared her for them. He treated Ahsoka as an equal, acting as her friend and confidant, providing her the freedom to embrace her true self.

Despite feeling disappointed when Ahsoka departed from the Jedi Order, Anakin never lost faith in her. He consistently demonstrated this unwavering belief. For instance, when she was wrongfully accused of murder, he staunchly defended her. Additionally, even after she left him and her life with the Order, Anakin took the initiative to repair and keep her lightsabers safe.

Was his training everything it could have been? Perhaps not – he primarily trained her to be a warrior rather than a true Jedi. However, one must consider the circumstances – she was growing up in the midst of war and was tasked with leading an army at a young age. Given these circumstances, it's doubtful that he could have taught her much else at that time. Ultimately, he equipped her with the necessary skills to survive the ambush during Order 66, as seen in Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi. This was his ultimate lesson, which allowed her to become a symbol of hope for the galaxy and a valuable member of the Rebellion.

All things considered, Anakin did his best with the time they had. Ahsoka now understands and appreciates all that he did for her, while also acknowledging his flaws and tragic descent into the dark side. The Ahsoka show has beautifully portrayed Anakin's complete character transformation, which was initiated in Star Wars: The Clone Wars. It successfully blends the different facets of this complex and tragic figure, creating a well-rounded character.

Ahsoka releases new episodes Tuesdays at 6 pm PT / 9 pm ET on Disney+.