The Depth of Kylo Ren’s Struggle: Understanding His Self-Hitting During the Lightsaber Battle

Introduction

In Star Wars: The Force Awakens, the scene where Kylo Ren is seen striking himself during the lightsaber battle serves as a powerful narrative and thematic element. Through this act, audiences gain insight into the character's inner turmoil, complexity, and the intense emotions he experiences.

Emotional Turmoil (Keyword: Emotional Turmoil)

Kylo Ren's self-inflicted blows during the lightsaber battle are a manifestation of his internal struggle. As a conflicted and unstable character, he is grappling with the influences of the light and dark sides of the Force. Hitting himself symbolizes his frustration and the complex emotions he feels, particularly regarding his lineage and the duality of his desires to follow in Darth Vader's footsteps while being pulled towards his past.

Intimidation (Keyword: Intimidation)

Beyond his emotional turmoil, Kylo Ren's self-hitting also highlights his unpredictability and volatility. By harming himself physically, he demonstrates a willingness to embrace pain and reinforces his commitment to the dark side. This action serves as an effective tool to intimidate his opponents, showcasing his readiness to endure suffering for his cause.

Character Development (Keyword: Character Development)

The moment of self-hitting reveals the depth of Kylo Ren's character. Unlike other Sith who project confidence and control, his self-inflicted blows highlight his insecurities and the desperation to claim the legacy he aspires to. This scene illustrates his struggle for power and identity, adding layers to his character and deepening the tension of the battle.

A Psychological Perspective: Countering Pain with Pain (Keyword: Self-hitting)

For anyone who has experienced intense physical pain, the phenomenon of using another source of pain to counter it is psychologically understood and can be effective. In the case of Kylo Ren, he was hit hard by Chewbacca's blaster bolt and deeply affected by the loss of his father, Han. To remain focused on his mission—to take Rey to Snoke—Kylo resorted to self-hitting as a way to maintain his composure and avoid the shock of his severe injuries.

Despite the seemingly counterintuitive nature of this action, it served Kylo Ren well. By bleeding heavily into the snow, he was grounded in the present moment, focusing on his objectives rather than succumbing to the despair of his situation.

Conclusion

The act of self-hitting by Kylo Ren is a multifaceted element that enriches the narrative of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. It provides a deeper understanding of his character, adds emotional depth to the story, and enhances the tension of the lightsaber battle. This scene is a testament to the psychological and thematic complexities embedded in the Star Wars universe, making it a crucial moment for both fans and scholars of the franchise.