Three years ago, a pivotal moment in The Book of Boba Fett showcased how a non-Jedi character grasped a fundamental Star Wars theme far better than Luke Skywalker himself. Unfortunately, the series received mixed responses, often being labeled as one of the lesser entries in the expansive Star Wars saga. This sentiment is particularly disheartening considering the show reintroduced the beloved Luke Skywalker to the franchise, with even Mark Hamill contributing creatively behind the scenes.
Despite the nostalgia surrounding Luke’s return, viewer engagement waned, and criticism emerged regarding Luke’s portrayal—similar to the backlash he faced within the sequel trilogy. One area where Luke’s decisions seemed at odds with his established character was notably illuminated in a scene involving a non-Jedi character offering unexpected wisdom, particularly regarding the theme of attachments.
Din Djarin’s Perspective on Attachments Surpasses Luke Skywalker’s
The Book of Boba Fett Sheds Light on Luke’s Evolution
Throughout the Star Wars narrative, the concept of attachments has played a crucial role, especially since the prequel trilogy. The prequels illustrated the Jedi Order’s strict prohibition against emotional attachments, whether romantic or familial. While these themes were absent from the original trilogy, by the time of The Book of Boba Fett, it was surprising to see Luke adopt and enforce this doctrine in his own Jedi Temple, compelling Grogu to choose between the path of a Jedi and his bond with Din Djarin.
In a stark contrast, during episode 5 of The Book of Boba Fett, Din Djarin articulates a different philosophy, stating, “Loyalty and solidarity are the way.” Although there are valid arguments against Din’s approach, given the franchise’s history highlighting the dangers of attachment—particularly through Anakin Skywalker’s storyline—it appears that Din Djarin promotes a more balanced understanding of attachments. His affection for Grogu is evident, yet he accepts the possibility of letting him go, demonstrating a clear distinction between loyalty and harmful attachment.
Luke’s Mandalorian Era Perspective on Attachments Remains Inconsistent
Uncertainty Surrounds Luke’s Sudden Shift in Perspective
It was disheartening to observe Din Djarin grasping the essence of attachments while Luke was steadfast in his insistence. This shift raises questions, as Luke’s character in the original trilogy displayed emotional connections, notably with Leia. His understanding of the importance of such attachments was prevalent, especially since this bond ultimately contributed to Anakin’s redemption.
More perplexing is the apparent lack of attachments in Luke’s life during the Mandalorian era. Beyond a mere change in viewpoint, both The Mandalorian and The Book of Boba Fett suggest Luke may have distanced himself from connections that were crucial to his character in the original trilogy. Notably, his relationships with Han, Leia, and others have been absent or unacknowledged in this newer timeline.
The absence of these relationships becomes even more significant considering the events of the sequel trilogy. In The Book of Boba Fett, we find Luke isolated on Ossus, focused on establishing his Jedi Temple. This isolation hints at a profound transformation within Luke that occurs between Return of the Jedi and The Book of Boba Fett, a transformation that remains unexplored creatively in the Star Wars narrative.
Given Ahsoka Tano’s interaction with Luke in The Book of Boba Fett, it could be inferred that she influenced his views on attachments, particularly since she witnessed the consequences of such bonds through Anakin’s story. Luke’s own experience, especially his rage when Vader threatened Leia, could have understandably contributed to his hesitance towards attachments. Still, it was jarring to see Luke Skywalker so rigidly adhere to a complex and arguably flawed rule about attachments, especially when a character like Din Djarin comprehended it with greater clarity.