If Qui-Gon Jinn Survived and Became a Jedi Master: Would Obi-Wan and Anakin’s Relationship Have Changed?

Introduction

The Star Wars universe is filled with fascinating characters whose interactions and development constantly engage fans. A hypothetical scenario where Qui-Gon Jinn survived and became a Jedi Master while Obi-Wan was still a Padawan before being knighted raises many intriguing questions, particularly regarding the relationship dynamics between them, and specifically how it might have affected Obi-Wan's mentoring of Anakin Skywalker. Let's delve into the potential implications and changes.

The Current Understanding

According to statements made by George Lucas and Dave Filoni, Qui-Gon Jinn's survival through the days of the prequel trilogy would mean that Obi-Wan would finish his training under Qui-Gon, becoming a Jedi Knight before being assigned to Anakin. Hence, the fundamental relationship dynamic between Obi-Wan and Anakin would remain essentially the same.

However, many fans speculate about how Qui-Gon's survival would have impacted the force-sensitive youth. Some argue that Qui-Gon's more strict and disciplined approach would have made Anakin a better Jedi. Others assert that the Jedi Order's own teachings, particularly regarding emotions and attachments, were suboptimal. Let's explore these arguments in more detail.

The Case for Qui-Gon’s Influence

Qui-Gon Jinn is known for his wisdom and more relaxed, mentor-like presence compared to the stricter Obi-Wan Kenobi. If Qui-Gon were to serve as Anakin's first master, it could lead to a different level of interaction and guidance. For instance, Qui-Gon's more approachable and intuitive nature might foster a closer bond between master and apprentice, leading to a more balanced and psychologically healthier relationship.

How Qui-Gon Could Have Affected Anakin

Quantifying Qui-Gon's potential impact on Anakin is complex. While it is true that Qui-Gon's teachings to Obi-Wan often emphasized the control of emotions and attachments, it is crucial to remember that these lessons were not always entirely effective or practical. As a student of the Living Force, Qui-Gon believed in the value of emotions and attachments, provided they were managed well.

Anakin, on the other hand, grew up in a challenging environment. His mother's death and subsequent attachment to the Jedi Order, which at times felt restrictive, added to his troubled emotional landscape. Qui-Gon, with his practical wisdom and empathy, might have provided a more nurturing and understanding environment, allowing Anakin to fully develop his emotions and attachments in a controlled but supportive manner.

The Impact on Obi-Wan and Anakin's Relationship

The dynamic between Obi-Wan and Anakin was characterized by mutual respect and a deep emotional connection. However, their relationship was also marked by tension and competitive energy. If Obi-Wan had been Anakin's initial master, the transition to becoming his Knight would have introduced new layers of complexity.

Qui-Gon's absence meant that Obi-Wan filled not only the role of master but also the emotional void left by Anakin's first Jedi. This unique blend could have led to a more empathetic and understanding mentorship from Obi-Wan, potentially fostering a deeper and more supportive bond between the two. Qui-Gon's presence might have provided a role model that Obi-Wan could emulate, possibly resulting in a more balanced and compassionate approach to Anakin's mentoring.

Conclusion: The Complexity of Human Nature

The key to this discussion lies in understanding that human nature, whether Jedi or not, is inherently complex. Emotions and attachments, despite being potentially dangerous, also hold the keys to human connection and resilience. Qui-Gon Jinn's approach to these emotions, while less militaristic, still recognized their power and value, making him a more rounded mentor.

In essence, the survival of Qui-Gon Jinn and his role in Anakin Skywalker's formative years would likely have led to a more nuanced and psychologically richer relationship between Obi-Wan and Anakin, shaped by a balance of discipline and empathy. The Jedi Order's teachings, while valuable, are often simplified in their execution, leading to potential oversights and misinterpretations.

Therefore, while it is easy to judge the past actions of Anakin Skywalker, the real lesson lies in the complexity of the human experience and the potential for different guidance to lead to different paths.