Why Kylo Ren Wasn't a Sith: An Analysis of His Journey

Kylo Ren, the enigmatic and powerful character from the Star Wars universe, is often discussed in the context of his connection to the Sith. However, his journey and the reasons why he didn't fully become a Sith are complex and multifaceted. In this article, we'll delve into his unique circumstances, the influence of his parents, and the impact of Rey on his path.

Defining Kylo Ren and His Role

As a force-sensitive individual, Kylo Ren is often portrayed as a dark side enforcer. Unlike Anakin Skywalker, who fully embraced the Sith path after the fall of Dooku, Kylo Ren's commitment to the Dark Side is more ambiguous. His actions, while violent, do not match the level of pure malice and dark power exhibited by other Sith Lords such as Darth Vader and Darth Sidious.

The Lack of a Sith Master

One of the key factors that prevented Kylo Ren from fully embracing the Sith path was the lack of a formal Sith Master. Darth Sidious, the self-proclaimed Sith Lord, had taken Snoke under his wing, but Snoke was more of a mentor than a master. This absence of a true Sith Master meant that Kylo Ren lacked the guidance and discipline necessary to fully commit to the Dark Side.

Emotions and Ambivalence

Kylo Ren's emotional journey is a central theme in the Star Wars saga. Unlike Anakin Skywalker, who had no father and lost his mother at a young age, Kylo Ren had the relative safety and stability provided by his parents. Anakin's mother was his entire world until her murder, leaving him with a profound sense of loss and fear. In contrast, Kylo Ren's parents were always known to him, even if they sometimes failed to spend quality time with him. This stability, however, coupled with his father's harsh deeds, created an inner ambivalence that prevented full commitment to the Dark Side.

Psychological Impact of Snoke and Rey

The impact of Snoke on Kylo Ren cannot be understated. Snoke capitalized on every difficulty and estrangement in Kylo's life, further exploiting his insecurities and vulnerabilities. However, it is important to note that Kylo Ren was not completely convinced of the righteousness of the Dark Side. Snoke's methods, which involved rubbing salt into the wounds of family estrangement, were not enough to completely sway Kylo's heart.

It was Rey, in particular, who exploited this inner doubt and helped Kylo Ren see a different path. Rey's presence and the revelation of his true lineage provided the emotional and psychological support that Kylo needed to resist the temptation of the Dark Side. This turn of events was crucial in redirecting Kylo Ren's trajectory away from full immersion in the Sith path.

Conclusion

Kylo Ren was well on the path to becoming a Sith, but several factors prevented him from fully committing to the Dark Side. The lack of a true Sith Master, his emotional ambivalence due to his parents' presence, and the intervention of Rey are key elements of his journey. This analysis not only provides insights into Kylo Ren's character but also highlights the intricate balance of emotions and influence in the Star Wars saga.