Did Anakin Skywalker Attend Padmé Amidala's Funeral?

The question of whether Anakin Skywalker attended Padmé Amidala's funeral has been a subject of much curiosity among Star Wars aficionados. Among the most intriguing details to emerge from the lore is a mysterious account that suggests Anakin did indeed visit the grave of his beloved wife, and it has significant implications for the figures and events that followed his transformation into Darth Vader.

Historical Accounts

According to soldier journal entries from the Imperial assault on Naboo, Anakin, now appearing as a dark and formidable Sith Lord known as Darth Vader, made a poignant and symbolic gesture at Padmé's grave. Shortly after donning the suit of armor that would become his iconic black exoskeleton, Anakin can be seen kneeling at the grave of the late Senator and Queen of Naboo, mourning not just for Padmé, but for the Jedi Order, the fallen Republic, and the impending end of the clones wars. This scene, oddly, brings a profound sense of finality to the Jedi as Darth Vader mourns the end of the Jedi Order, Anakin Skywalker, and his transformation into the Sith.

Final Scene Analysis

The visuals of the final scene in Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith are haunting and powerful. Darth Vader is seen walking away from Padmé's grave, his mechanical breathing the only sound as the end credits roll. This moment encapsulates the transformation from the idealistic Jedi, Anakin Skywalker, to the Sith Lord, Darth Vader. It symbolizes a funeral not just for Padmé, but for the Jedi and the Republic, as he mourns the end of the old order and the rise of the Empire.

Additional Details from Tales of the Jedi

For those interested to uncover the truth behind this enigma, a documentary series produced by Disney titled Tales of the Jedi provides an answer. However, if you have not seen it, it's wise to watch it first before continuing to avoid spoilers. According to the Tales of the Jedi, Ahsoka Tano did attend Padmé's funeral, albeit secretly. Ahsoka, a former Jedi Padawan and close friend of Padmé, could not stay away from her ally's final farewell.

Ahsoka's presence at the funeral is significant as it underscores her deep bond with Padmé. While only Senator Organa (whose identity is later revealed to be fallout senator Bail Organa) observed Ahsoka, she confronted her about the danger she posed by attending such a event during the Empire's reign of terror. Ahsoka's response, faltering in the face of Organa's sincerity, merely asked to be left alone. This poignant moment reveals the emotional toll the changes in the galaxy have had on the surviving Jedi.

Conclusion

The mystery surrounding Anakin Skywalker and Padmé Amidala's funeral adds a layer of complexity to the historical events of Star Wars. From the solemn and symbolic act of mourning in the face of turmoil to the clandestine presence of a dear friend, these details offer deeper insights into the characters and the dramatic shifts in the galaxy during this pivotal time. Whether viewed through historical accounts or new documentaries, the story of these events remains a compelling chapter in Star Wars lore.

For more information, consider watching Tales of the Jedi or exploring the vast Star Wars universe online and in official publications.