Tag: revenge of the sith

“So this is how liberty dies… with thunderous applause.”

From: Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith

Genre: Movies

Who said it?: Padme Amidala

The story behind the quote: This week’s quote initially comes from Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith. It is the final movie of the Prequel Trilogy and sets up the events which will lead to the Original Trilogy.

The quote comes from near the end of the film. Palpatine has managed to sow fear throughout the Galactic Republic and declares himself as Emperor in the guise of reining in all of the threats. Padme Amidala (played by Natalie Portman) sees this act as it truly is, people willing to give up their freedoms for this supposed security, delivers the quote.

Geek wisdom: Most dictatorships only happen when people declare their willingness to give up their freedoms for whatever reason. In fact, they might not even realize it and cheer on their new dictator as they believe that’s what’s right for them.

“Only a Sith deals in absolutes.”

From: Star Wars, specifically Episode III: Revenge of the Sith

Genre: Movies

Who said it?: Obi-Wan Kenobi

The story behind the quote: This week’s quote comes from the Star Wars series. More specifically, it comes from Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, the final chapter of the Star Wars prequel trilogy.

The quote comes near the climax of the film. Anakin Skywalker (played by Hayden Christensen) is confronted by Padme Amidala (played by Natalie Portman). He sees Obi-Wan Kenobi (played by Ewan MacGregor) and thinks that Padme has betrayed him and starts Force choking her. As Anakin rants that, by conquering the galaxy, he has brought peace to it. Anakin then tells Obi-Wan that, if his former mentor isn’t for his side, then he must kill him. This is when Obi-Wan delivers the quote.

Geek wisdom: We live in the world where most people actually do believe in absolutes and partisan views. A lot of people do think that the world is black and white. Their thoughts are the only good things now and any other point of view that differs from what they’re thinking is wrong and must then be evil. But we don’t live in a world of black and white. The Sith basically believe that anything else other than how they view the universe must be snuffed out as there is no room for negotiation.

While we’re on this, Obi-Wan’s statement may seem hypocritical but it really isn’t based on the circumstances. Obi-Wan is only fights back once he realizes that Anakin isn’t willing to negotiate or talk things through. He has no choice in the matter. On the other hand, Anakin does have a choice to discuss his point of view with Obi-Wan or to simply agree to disagree. But he cannot as he must destroy any opposition.