Mace Windu’s Complex Views on Anakin Skywalker: A Sith Detection and Jedi Code Adherence

Introduction

The relationship between Mace Windu and Anakin Skywalker was one of shadows and deception, contrasting sharply with the platonic expectations of a mentor-mentee bond. This article delves into Mace Windu’s thoughts and opinions of Anakin, examining how these views evolved over time, based on Anakin’s actions, his adherence (or lack thereof) to the Jedi Code, and his capacity as a negotiator and mediator. The narrative also highlights the significant turning points that influenced Mace’s perceptions.

Mistrust and Scepticism: The Initial Perception

Mace Windu's initial view of Anakin Skywalker was steeped in scepticism and mistrust. Playing a key role in the interrogation of Darth Plagueis’ apprentice, Anakin, Windu was among the Jedi who discovered the possible use of the dark side of the Force by Anakin. His instincts suggested a dangerous lack of restraint, a trait that frequently exposed the young Jedi to accusations and unexpected consequences. In a pivotal sequence from the Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones, Mace Windu clearly articulates his unease with Anakin, highlighting his:

Constant willingness to break the Code by taking shortcuts for success Poor management of his emotional attachments, which could cloud his judgement and objectivity as a negotiator

During the confrontation with Count Dooku, Anakin’s unorthodox approach was again met with disapproval from Mace, who felt that Anakin failed to adhere to the Jedi principles of diplomacy and respect for life.

The Challenges of Adhering to the Jedi Code

Despite Anakin’s undeniable talents, Mace Windu observed that his adherence to the Jedi Code was often questionable. The Code is a cornerstone of Jedi philosophy, emphasizing temperance, respect, and non-violent problem-solving.

Anakin frequently resorted to the use of the Force to achieve his objectives, often bypassing the more traditional and pacifist approaches advocated by the Code. Mace quickly identified that Anakin’s reliance on the Force for victory led to a series of ethical dilemmas and eventually compromised the integrity of their Order.

During the time of Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, Mace’s concerns reached a peak. Anakin’s transformation into Darth Vader was a direct result of his unwavering commitment to the dark side, a path that Mace had long foreseen and warned against. The pivotal moment where Anakin chose to sacrifice Padmé rather than allow her to be taken by Palpatine, even if such an action ran counter to the Jedi Code, further solidified Mace’s worst fears.

Objective Negotiator and Mediator

Mace Windu believed that effective negotiation and mediation were essential skills for a successful Jedi, especially in the volatile conditions of the Clone Wars. However, Anakin’s intrinsic attachment to people and their well-being frequently clouded his judgment.

Mace noted that Anakin’s deep emotional connections with others often caused him to make decisions based on personal sentiment rather than selfless, strategic thinking. Moreover, Mace appreciated the importance of maintaining a logical and balanced approach, something Anakin sometimes struggled with in his more impulsive nature.

Throughout the war, Mace Windu often found himself acting as a mediator, balancing the needs of the Order and the recursive needs of the Republic. In contrast, Anakin’s hyper-loyalty to key figures like Count Dooku and his subsequent dedication to Palpatine left him more focused on fulfilling personal vendettas rather than broader Jedi goals.

Ancillary Figures and Their Impact

The Scrivens, or Scrivents, a group of off-world negotiators also discussed in the meetings, served as a testament to the principles Mace admired. These individuals were known for their impartiality and their capacity for long-standing negotiations, characteristics that contrasted sharply with Anakin’s more immediate and emotionally charged approach.

Conclusion

Mace Windu’s views on Anakin Skywalker were complex, evolving from initial mistrust through a series of significant turning points. His insights highlight the challenges of adhering to the Jedi Code in a tumultuous era, where emotions and the allure of power often clashed with the principles of peace and justice. The contrast between Mace’s approach to conflict and Anakin’s, visible in their respective reactions throughout the war, serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of emotional control and unwavering commitment to the Code.