Why Mace Windu Isnt the Protagonist in Star Wars: An In-depth Analysis
Why Mace Windu Isn’t the Protagonist in Star Wars: An In-depth Analysis
Mace Windu is a prominent figure in the Star Wars franchise, but he never takes the central role of a protagonist. There are several reasons for this, and in this article, we will explore these reasons in detail.
Reasons for Mace Windu's Lack of Protagonist Role
Production and Casting Constraints
The first Star Wars film was released in 1977, and at that time, Samuel L. Jackson was not a film actor of the magnitude we recognize today. As such, Mace Windu’s role in the early films was limited. To understand the impact of this, consider that this man’s lightsaber is engraved with the words "BAD MOTHER F*CKER" in Aurebesh—a detail that Jackson himself suggested and was included to honor his creative input. This level of involvement is a testament to how significant the role was, even during an era when it was less prominent in the narrative.
Plot and Character Development
Mace Windu dies well before the events of the original trilogy begin, specifically before Luke Skywalker is born. This fact alone speaks volumes about the film’s narrative structure and character arcs. The death of a significant Jedi master leaves a void that is not filled by him, but rather by other characters who grow and evolve throughout the series. It is crucial to remember that one cannot be a central protagonist if they are no longer a part of the story.
Role of Race and Identity in the Star Wars Universe
Another factor influencing Mace Windu’s role is a more critical, social one. Star Wars has been criticized for its representation and the underrepresentation of diverse characters, particularly people of color. Mace Windu, along with other black characters like Lando Calrissian and Finn, often serve more supporting roles. These characters are predominantly black and, in many cases, they stand in as support for white protagonists. This phenomenon is quite similar to the real-life historical context, where black characters often serve as sidekicks or allies to white heroes, which can be seen as a reflection of historical narratives where marginalized groups supported the central figures of power.
A Character Criticized by His Own Order
Mace Windu is also criticized for his own contradictions. He is portrayed as arrogant, hot-tempered, and overly self-righteous. He often criticizes Anakin for the darkness within him while turning a blind eye to his own adherence to the same principles. This self-contradiction makes him less relatable and dynamic as a central character, which could explain his lack of protagonist status.
Script and Authorial Intentions
Finally, the choice to make Mace Windu, instead of other characters, a less central figure can be attributed to the authorial decisions of George Lucas himself. During the creation of the prequel trilogy, George Lucas had already established that Anakin Skywalker was destined to be the central protagonist. This decision likely influenced the way Mace Windu was portrayed and his place in the narrative.
Conclusion
Understanding why Mace Windu is not the protagonist in Star Wars involves examining various aspects, including the limitations of his early cinematic role, the temporal constraints of the narrative arc, the social implications of his identity, and the authorial intentions behind his character development. These factors collectively contribute to the complex and multifaceted nature of Mace Windu in the Star Wars saga.