Darth Vader Canon vs Starkiller: The Definitive Guide to the Chosen One

When it comes to the Star Wars saga, one question lingers: who is truly the Chosen One of the Force? Whether you gravitate towards Darth Vader or his clone Starkiller, the debate is enthralling. Let’s break down the arguments for both and explore why Darth Vader, in his canonical form, remains the Chosen One according to the lore.

The Legend of Darth Vader

Darth Vader, Anakin Skywalker, has been a central character in Star Wars since the first film. His journey from a young, idealistic Jedi to a powerful Sith is both tragic and inspiring. Anakin’s fall was not just due to a lack of self-control but also a result of his complex and often forced transformation under the manipulations of Darth Sidious. His role as the Chosen One is well-established within the expanded universe (or EU) and the canonical films. The Chosen One prophecy, according to legendary Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi, entails the birth of the one who will bring balance to the Force.

Darth Vader’s journey is fraught with personal tragedy and sacrifice, earning him the title of Chosen One. His sacrifices in the clones wars and the destruction of the Galactic Republic ultimately paved the way for the rise of the Jedi Order and the ultimate battle to reclaim balance. The saga’s focus on the redemption arc of Anakin Skywalker highlights his significance in the chronology.

The Path of Starkiller

Starkiller, also known as General Hux, is a more recent addition to the Star Wars universe. While he possesses formidable powers within the Force and exhibits exceptional leadership skills, his journey does not align with the traditional narrative of the Chosen One. Starkiller is a clone created to serve Supreme Leader Snoke, and his backstory reveals that he is merely a tool in a larger overall plan.

Unlike Anakin Skywalker, who played a pivotal role in the fall of the Republic and the rise of the Galactic Empire, Starkiller’s role is to capture and torture Rey to break her and ultimately ensure the dominance of the First Order. This manipulation and lack of a personal transformation from a heroic stance into a Sith-like figure weaken his claim to the Chosen One title. His character is more about compliance and obedience rather than destiny and redemption.

Argument for Darth Vader as the Chosen One

The case for Darth Vader as the Chosen One is strong, supported by several key points within the Star Wars cannon:

Prophetic Destiny: The prophecy of the Chosen One, imparted by Obi-Wan Kenobi to his Padawan, is rooted in Anakin’s potential to restore balance to the Force. This prophecy stuck with Anakin even after his fall, suggesting that the Force saw potential in ensuring balance would be achieved. Transformation and Sacrifice: Darth Vader’s story is one of transformation, sacrifice, and the price of power. He embodies the idea that one must pay a heavy price to achieve the status of the Chosen One. This narrative arc resonates with the struggle between light and dark sides of the Force. Redemption and Self-Discovery: While his journey often feels like a struggle against an insurmountable obstacle powered by the emotional manipulation of the Emperor, Anakin’s actions, particularly his sacrifice to save Luke, hint at a potential redemption path and a chance to fulfill his destiny as the Chosen One.

Conclusion

In the grand narrative of the Star Wars saga, Darth Vader remains the unrivaled Chosen One. While Starkiller may have impressive Force abilities, his creation as a tool rather than a chosen vessel by fate and destiny aligns him less with the narrative of the Chosen One. Anakin Skywalker’s journey encompasses the breadth of sacrifice, redemption, and the power of the Force, making him the more compelling and authentic Chosen One.

Key Takeaways: The Chosen One must have a significant personal journey, including transformation, sacrifice, and the potential for redemption. Anakin Skywalker, as depicted in the canonical Star Wars canon, best fits this criterion.

Explore further how these ideas impact the broader narrative of Star Wars, and you might find yourself more convinced of Darth Vader's right to the title of the Chosen One.