What did Palpatine think of Obi Wan? This question has intrigued many fans of the Star Wars saga since the release of the first film in 1977. As the primary antagonist in the original trilogy, Palpatine’s views on the iconic Jedi Master, Obi-Wan Kenobi, play a crucial role in understanding the dynamics of the galaxy and the rise of the dark side of the Force.
Palpatine, also known as Darth Sidious, was a master manipulator and the leader of the Galactic Empire. His power and influence were so great that he could bend the will of the galaxy to his desires. However, his relationship with Obi-Wan Kenobi was complex and multifaceted. On one hand, Palpatine respected the Jedi Master for his skills and knowledge of the Force. On the other hand, he viewed Obi-Wan as a threat to his plans and sought to eliminate him at every turn.
During the prequel trilogy, it becomes evident that Palpatine had a deep admiration for Obi-Wan’s abilities and dedication to the Jedi way. In “The Phantom Menace,” Palpatine acknowledges Obi-Wan’s expertise in lightsaber combat and his ability to sense the presence of the Force. This respect is further highlighted when Palpatine seeks out Obi-Wan to train his own apprentice, Anakin Skywalker, in the ways of the Force.
However, as the series progresses, Palpatine’s true intentions become clearer. He views Obi-Wan as a potential obstacle to his ultimate goal of gaining absolute power. Palpatine’s fear of Obi-Wan’s influence on the young Skywalker is a driving force behind his decision to manipulate events in “Attack of the Clones” and “Revenge of the Sith.” He uses Anakin’s emotions and insecurities to turn him against Obi-Wan, ultimately leading to the tragic death of the Jedi Master.
In “Revenge of the Sith,” Palpatine’s disdain for Obi-Wan reaches its peak. After Anakin Skywalker turns to the dark side and becomes Darth Vader, Palpatine reveals his true colors. He not only seeks to eliminate Obi-Wan but also to erase any trace of the Jedi from the galaxy. This is evident in his order to kill all Jedi, including Obi-Wan, and his subsequent efforts to destroy the Jedi Temple.
In conclusion, what Palpatine thought of Obi-Wan was a mix of respect, fear, and disdain. While he admired the Jedi Master’s skills and dedication, he also saw him as a threat to his plans for galactic domination. As the series unfolded, Palpatine’s true intentions became increasingly clear, and his desire to eliminate Obi-Wan became a central part of his rise to power. This complex relationship between the two characters adds depth to the Star Wars saga and serves as a testament to the power of the Force and the struggle between light and dark.
