Exploring the Symbolism in the Last Jedi’s Conclusion: Hope and Force

George Lucas’s The Last Jedi (2017) has sparked considerable debate among Star Wars fans and critics alike. At the film’s climax, the fate of the rebellion hangs in the balance, highlighting themes of hope, redemption, and the enduring legacy of the Force. Critical to this discussion is the symbolic significance of the last scene, which introduces young Finn as he becomes a symbol of new hope for the resistance. Let us delve deeper into this pivotal moment and its implications.

Inside the Star Wars Universe

The final scene of The Last Jedi is often interpreted as a powerful statement about resilience and the enduring spirit of resistance against overwhelming odds. After the tragic loss of Luke Skywalker and the near-total destruction of the Rebel Alliance, the remnants of hope lie in the tales and dreams of common people. Finn's humble origins as a former TIE pilot-officer and his transformation into a Jedi-aspiring stable boy symbolize the resilience of the rebellion.

The scene opens with Finn reaching for a broom, symbolizing his initial efforts to contribute in a practical, yet seemingly lowly, way. The moment the broom leaps into his hand is not merely a coincidental miracle; it is a metaphor for the Force working in mysterious ways. Despite the First Order's best efforts to crush resistance, the seeds of rebellion cannot be extinguished. Finn's performance of a Jedi trick further reinforces the idea that the legacy of the Jedi can be carried forward even by those who are not formally trained.

The inclusion of the ring, which is closely related to the Force, suggests that the bloodline of the Jedi endures. This detail not only underscores the theme of continuity but also serves as a reminder that the rebellion's fighting spirit cannot be suppressed.

Symbolism in the Real World

From an outside perspective, the scene is rich with symbolism for a broader audience. For long-time fans, The Last Jedi is more than a collection of movies; it is a cherished part of their childhood and formative years. The ability to imagine oneself as a Jedi or a Rebel, even if just with a broom, is part of what makes Star Wars such a powerful cultural force.

The scene also serves to balance the narrative with a positive note. While the prequels often portrayed the hero as someone extraordinary, The Last Jedi emphasizes that anyone can be a hero or a Jedi. This is a nod to the original trilogy, which showed that the hero could be anyone, regardless of their background or appearance. Finn’s story is a reminder that the rebellion’s fighting spirit and the tradition of the Force can be inherited by individuals who may not appear to possess obvious virtues or abilities.

The Sequel to the Sequels: Understanding the Force

The Last Jedi also introduces a concept that aligns with the wisdom of Yoda from the original trilogy—that to become a true Jedi, one must fully understand the Force. Luke Skywalker’s choice to abandon the physical realm and become one with the Force can be seen as a parallel to Yoda's own decision at the conclusion of Return of the Jedi. This shift was necessary for both characters to preserve the Jedi legacy.

Enlightened by Rey's presence and the Force's guidance, Yoda's spirit provides direct training to his successor. This return to the spiritual aspects of the Force aligns with Yoda's earlier teachings in The Empire Strikes Back about "turning off the mind, calming the emotion" to access the Force. Yoda’s near-death experience suggests a profound understanding that death can serve as a powerful evolutionary step in one’s spiritual journey, akin to the final transition of Obi-Wan in Episode IV: A New Hope.

Conclusion

In summary, the final scene of The Last Jedi is more than just the story of a new hero; it is a powerful symbol of hope, resilience, and the enduring legacy of the Force. It reiterates the themes of the original trilogy and the broader Star Wars saga, emphasizing that hope can arise from even the most humble beginnings. The scene serves as a reminder of the rebellion's unwavering spirit and the essential interconnectivity of the Force across the generations.

For those who cherish the Star Wars universe, the last scene is a testament to the universal quest for meaning and the capacity for heroes to arise from unexpected places. Whether viewing it through the lens of the Star Wars universe or reflecting on the broader cultural significance, the importance of this moment cannot be overstated.