The Lifespan and Death of Darth Plagueis: A Canonical Comparison

Introduction

The character of Darth Plagueis, master of the legendary Sith Lord Darth Sidious, holds a place of importance in the Star Wars universe. His death is a significant event, as it marks a shift in the power dynamics of the Sith Order. Delving into the different continuities, this article explores the canon and Legends versions of Darth Plagueis' death, combining historical references and original narratives.

Canon Continuum: Darth Plagueis' Legacy

In the current canon post-Disney acquisition, detailed information about Darth Plagueis remains limited. The Star Wars canon primarily focuses on Darth Sidious, who reveals much about his master and instructor during their private conversations. According to The Rise of Skywalker and subsequent media, Darth Plagueis was the Master of Darth Sidious, a expert in bioengineering and manipulation of midichlorians.

Key events in Plagueis' tenure as a Sith include:

His failed attempt to establish a Force dyad with himself and Sidious His successful apprentice Sidious killing Plagueis in his sleep His training under Darth Tenebrous, with Tenebrous having previously served as the Master of Darth Venamis

The exact details surrounding Plagueis' death, such as the circumstances and the precise time, remain uncertain in the current canon. There is no confirmed information regarding the date or the exact manner of his demise.

Legends Continuum: A Detailed Exploration

The Legends continuity, which predates the Disney acquisition, provides a more fleshed-out backstory for Darth Plagueis. The novel Darth Plagueis offers an in-depth exploration of his history and character.

Darth Plagueis: The Sorcerer of Secrets identifies him as Muun Hego Damask II, born on Mygeeto. His mother, a Force-sensitive, warned him about the dangers of using the Force by forcing another child to kill himself via a mind trick. Plagueis was ultimately trained by Darth Tenebrous, and took the name Hego Damask.

Within the Legends universe, Plagueis:

Half-owned Damask Holdings, a financial company, and was a member of the Intergalactic Banking Clan. Murdered his Master, Darth Tenebrous, to gain full control of his training. Had a rival, Darth Venamis, whom he put into a coma to use for his experiments before ultimately allowing him to die. Scouted potential apprentices and eventually took Sheev Palpatine, who became Darth Sidious, as his apprentice. Involved in the early discussions with the Kaminoans regarding the creation of a clone army for the Yinchorri, eventually revising the plan to an army allied with and subsequently betrayed the Jedi. Conspired with the Trade Federation to blockade Naboo, involving both Darth Sidious and himself. Ordered Darth Sidious to kill Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi to establish his rule.

These actions and events were pivotal in shaping the history of the Star Wars galaxy in the Legends continuity.

Comparison and Conclusion

The difference in details between the canonical and Legends versions highlights the evolving nature of the Star Wars universe. The Legends continuity provides a more comprehensive and detailed narrative of Darth Plagueis' life and death, while the current canon is more focused on presenting coherent and concise information.

Regardless of the continuity, both provide valuable insights into the complex and intricate nature of the Sith Order, and the origins of the most infamous apprentice of all time.

Keywords: Darth Plagueis, Sith, Legends