The Dark Sides of Redemption: Darth Vader’s Motivation to Turn Luke Skywalker

When Darth Vader suggested to Emperor Palpatine that Luke Skywalker could be a powerful ally if he could be turned to the dark side, it was indeed a complex moment that reflected Vader's internal conflict. At this point in the story, Vader has come to realize that Luke is his son, adding a personal stake to his suggestion. While Vader's words can be interpreted as a strategic move to protect Luke and potentially bring him to the dark side, they also reveal Vader's hope that he could redeem himself through his son. This desire could be seen as an attempt to forge a new family bond and perhaps even reclaim his own lost humanity.

Layered Motivations

However, it is important to note that Vader's motivations are layered. He is still deeply entrenched in the dark side and is trying to manipulate events to his advantage, possibly seeing Luke as a means to gain more power against Palpatine. This moment highlights Vader's struggle between his loyalty to the Emperor and his burgeoning desire to protect his son, setting the stage for the redemption arc that unfolds later in the saga.

Revised Perspectives

Yes and no. While the prequel/special edition's depiction of this moment may seem problematic, it is clear through the original trilogy and in newer canon comics and books that Vader's figuring out Luke's identity became evident much earlier. Ignoring the rewritten dialogue of their conversation in Empire Strikes Back is the best approach to accurately understand Vader's motivations.

Vader appears to be cementing a plan to finally get back at Palpatine for tricking him into destroying everyone and everything he ever had. With a son who is strong enough to sense the Force during the battle of Yavin, some connection to his wife still in the galaxy, and an ersatz second chance, he is possibly seeking a way to take on Palpatine and win. This moment suggests that Luke could be a powerful ally for Vader, given his abilities and potential.

Changing Views

However, Vader's views change significantly when he discovers that power, revenge, and order were enough motivation for him. Luke would literally rather die than turn to the Dark Side. This sentiment continues through Revenge of the Jedi, where he feels trapped, unable to take on Palpatine directly, so he faces the choice of killing his son or dying himself. It's only in this context that Luke takes a third option, setting the stage for his ultimate redemption and growth as a character.

Description

Vader's complex motivations and the interplay of his conflicting desires are central to the narrative of The Force Awakens. The arc of Vader's character is a profound exploration of the human condition, showing that redemption is possible even in the bleakest of circumstances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the temptation to turn Luke to the dark side is a significant aspect of Vader's character in the original trilogy, his true hopes lie in protecting his son and finding redemption. Through his actions and the choices he makes, he ultimately sets the stage for his own redemption, as well as that of Luke Skywalker}