Ahsoka Tano's journey in Star Wars: The Clone Wars was filled with important lessons, but it was her discovery of consequences that truly transformed her. Initially, Ahsoka was an impulsive and overly confident Jedi, believing herself to be a skilled fighter and leader despite her lack of experience. This mindset resulted in unnecessary losses and the depletion of crucial resources. However, when Ahsoka faced the repercussions of her actions, she began to understand the importance of restraint and considering others before herself.
Interestingly, Ahsoka didn't learn this crucial lesson directly from her master, Anakin Skywalker. Instead, she gained insight through personal experiences and guidance from other Jedi Masters like Master Sinube. Interacting with fellow Padawans, particularly Barriss Offee, also contributed to her realization. Ultimately, Ahsoka comprehended that every action carries consequences. When the Jedi Council wrongfully accused her of treason in season 5, their arrogance and lack of remorse pushed her to leave the Order and embrace the qualities that truly define a Jedi: resilience, kindness, and selflessness. Anakin, blinded by his own beliefs, unfortunately missed out on the same lesson that Ahsoka learned.
How Ahsoka Learned Actions Have Consequences In Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Four episodes of The Clone Wars played a significant role in broadening Ahsoka's understanding of consequences. These crucial episodes occurred early on in her journey. The first episode, "Storm over Ryloth" from season 1, marks Ahsoka's initial command, where she dismisses orders to retreat from Admiral Yularen and Anakin, leading to the loss of most of her soldiers. Ahsoka, although not a malicious individual, experiences remorse for the lives lost. This incident becomes a turning point for her as she begins to grasp the impact of her actions on others.
A few episodes later, in season 2's "Holocron Heist," Ahsoka is compelled to retreat and witnesses firsthand the avoidable losses that occurred due to her headstrong nature. This teaches her the importance of patience. This lesson continues in two more pivotal episodes centered around Ahsoka: season 2, episode 6, "Weapons Factory," and season 2, episode 11, "Lightsaber Lost." In "Weapons Factory," she must follow the guidance of a more level-headed fellow Padawan. In "Lightsaber Lost," Ahsoka learns the value of taking action instead of merely reacting while on a quest to recover her stolen lightsaber.
Anakin Avoided This Lesson - And Was Doomed Because Of It
Anakin failed to teach Ahsoka the importance of facing consequences, as they both shared impulsive and combative tendencies, believing they knew better than others. However, due to Ahsoka's excitable nature, she realized the cost of her actions and became more selfless. Anakin, on the other hand, never grasped this lesson fully. Despite ordering Ahsoka to retreat and attempting to do right by his men, he consistently defied the teachings of the Order and prioritized his own selfish desires.
Anakin's secret marriage to Padmé strained their relationship and made him vulnerable to manipulation from Palpatine. It also pushed him towards the dark side more than any other Jedi. While the Order's rule against attachments may not be foolproof, its reasoning is understandable. Anakin chose to disregard it completely in favor of his emotions, endangering not only Padmé, Ahsoka, and Obi-Wan but also the entire Order. The significance of facing consequences is a crucial lesson for Jedi, exemplified perfectly in Star Wars: The Clone Wars.