04.18.09
Anakin Skywalker and Senator Palpatine On Knowledge and Power (and what it says about modernism)
Just before Anakin surrenders to the dark side (depicted in the video clip), a fascinating conversation takes place between he and Senator Palpatine. If you know anything about grace, modernism, and gnosticism, you too will find this fascinating:
Palpatine: Let me help you to know the subtleties of the force
Anakin: How do you know the ways of the force?
P: My mentor told me everything about the force-even the nature of the dark side
A: You know the dark side?
P: Anakin, if one is to understand the great mystery, one must study all its aspects, not just the dogmatic, narrow view of the Jedi. If you wish to become a complete and wise leader, you must embrace a larger view of the force. Be careful of the Jedi, Anakin. Only through me can you achieve a power greater than any Jedi. Learn to know the dark side of the force and you will be able to save your wife from certain death.
A: What did you say?
P: Use my knowledge, I beg you.
A: You’re the Sith Lord.
P: I know what’s been troubling you. Listen to me. Don’t continue to be a pawn of the Jedi council. Every since I’ve known you, you’ve been searching for a life greater than that of an ordinary Jedi-a life of significance; of conscience . . . Are you going to kill me?
A: I would certainly like to.
P: I know you would. I can feel your anger. It gives you focus-makes you stronger.
A: I’m going to turn you over to the Jedi council.
P: Of course, you should. But you’re not sure of their intentions, are you?
A: I will quickly discover the truth of all this.
P: You have great wisdom, Anakin. Know the power of the dark side-the power to save Padme.
ff to the scene after he kneels before and submits to Palpatine:
A: What about the other Jedi spread out across the galaxy?
P: Their betrayal will be dealt with. After you have killed all the Jedi in the Temple . . . wipe out the other separatist leaders. Once more the Sith will rule the galaxy and we shall have peace.
Read my response here.