Mara Skywalker: The Expanded Universe Legend and Her Enduring Legacy

Mara Skywalker, a name that resonates deeply within the Star Wars Expanded Universe (now Legends), represents a complex and compelling character arc. From her initial role as the Emperor’s Hand to her eventual transformation into a Jedi Master and wife of Luke Skywalker, Mara’s journey is one of redemption, self-discovery, and unwavering loyalty. This article explores the multifaceted character of Mara Skywalker, her origins, significant contributions to the Star Wars lore, and the reasons behind her enduring popularity among fans.

Origins and Early Life as the Emperor’s Hand

Mara Jade’s story begins long before her association with Luke Skywalker. Born on an unknown world, she was identified as Force-sensitive at a young age and taken to the Emperor’s Citadel on Byss. She became a servant of Emperor Palpatine, eventually rising to the rank of Emperor’s Hand – a covert operative carrying out his personal missions. As the Emperor’s Hand, Mara Skywalker – well, not yet Skywalker – was exceptionally skilled in combat, espionage, and assassination. She was fiercely loyal to Palpatine and carried out his orders without question.

Her training was rigorous, shaping her into a formidable weapon. The Emperor instilled in her a deep understanding of the Force, albeit twisted by the dark side. She learned to anticipate threats, manipulate situations, and eliminate enemies with ruthless efficiency. This period of her life was marked by unwavering dedication to the Empire and a belief in its cause.

The Emperor’s Final Command

A pivotal moment in Mara Jade’s life occurred during the Battle of Endor. As Palpatine met his demise at the hands of Darth Vader, he transmitted a final command to Mara through the Force: to kill Luke Skywalker. This command became a driving force in her life, shaping her actions and fueling her animosity towards the young Jedi. This mental command, deeply ingrained within her psyche, haunted her for years after the Emperor’s death.

The Emperor’s death threw the galaxy into chaos, and Mara Skywalker found herself adrift. The Empire fractured, and various factions vied for control. Mara, still bound by the Emperor’s final command, struggled to find her place in this new order. She became involved with various criminal organizations and mercenary groups, using her skills to survive and pursue her ultimate goal.

From Smuggler to Jedi

Mara’s path eventually led her to the smuggler Talon Karrde, becoming a key member of his organization. This association provided her with a degree of stability and allowed her to hone her skills further. However, the Emperor’s command continued to weigh heavily on her, influencing her decisions and shaping her interactions with others. During this time, she often crossed paths with Luke Skywalker, leading to tense encounters and reluctant alliances.

One of the most significant turning points in Mara Skywalker‘s journey was her forced alliance with Luke to combat a common threat. Through these shared experiences, she began to see Luke in a new light, recognizing his compassion, his dedication to justice, and his unwavering commitment to the light side of the Force. Her animosity towards him gradually diminished, replaced by a growing respect and, eventually, affection.

Luke, sensing her potential, offered her training in the ways of the Jedi. Initially hesitant, Mara eventually accepted, embarking on a new path of self-discovery and redemption. Learning to control and channel the Force for good was a challenging process, forcing her to confront her past and overcome the dark influences that had shaped her life. She grappled with the Emperor’s lingering command, fighting to break free from its grip.

Marriage to Luke Skywalker and Jedi Master

The relationship between Luke and Mara Skywalker evolved from animosity to respect, then to friendship, and finally to love. Their bond was forged in the crucible of shared experiences, mutual understanding, and unwavering commitment to the light side of the Force. Despite the challenges they faced, their love for each other deepened, culminating in their marriage.

As a Jedi Master, Mara Skywalker became a powerful force for good in the galaxy. She trained new generations of Jedi, fought against the remnants of the Empire, and defended the innocent from injustice. She was known for her strategic mind, her unwavering courage, and her deep understanding of the Force. Her experiences as the Emperor’s Hand gave her a unique perspective, allowing her to anticipate threats and outmaneuver her enemies.

Mara Skywalker was a formidable warrior, a skilled diplomat, and a compassionate leader. She balanced her responsibilities as a Jedi Master with her duties as a wife and mother, creating a loving and supportive family with Luke. Her presence enriched the Jedi Order, bringing a new perspective and a unique set of skills to the organization.

The Tragedy of Her Death

Tragically, Mara Skywalker‘s life was cut short by the Yuuzhan Vong invasion. She was killed by her nephew, Jacen Solo (later known as Darth Caedus), who had fallen to the dark side. Her death was a devastating blow to Luke and the entire Jedi Order, leaving a void that could never be truly filled. Mara’s sacrifice served as a catalyst for Luke’s determination to defeat the Yuuzhan Vong and restore peace to the galaxy. [See also: Luke Skywalker’s Journey to Becoming a Jedi Master]

Her death served as a major plot point in the *Legacy of the Force* series. The impact of her loss rippled through the galaxy, affecting the lives of countless individuals. Her legacy as a Jedi Master, a wife, and a mother continued to inspire others to fight for justice and defend the light side of the Force.

Why Mara Skywalker Remains a Fan Favorite

Mara Skywalker remains a beloved character in the Star Wars Legends universe for several reasons. Her complex backstory, her compelling character arc, and her strong personality resonate with fans. She is not simply a damsel in distress or a one-dimensional hero; she is a flawed and complex individual who undergoes significant growth and transformation throughout her life.

Her relationship with Luke Skywalker is also a key factor in her popularity. Their dynamic is unique and engaging, built on mutual respect, shared experiences, and a deep, abiding love. They are not simply a romantic pairing; they are partners, allies, and confidantes who support each other through thick and thin.

Mara’s strength, intelligence, and unwavering dedication to the light side of the Force make her a role model for many fans. She is a powerful female character who is not defined by her relationship with Luke but stands on her own as a formidable warrior and a compassionate leader. Mara Skywalker‘s legacy continues to inspire fans to embrace their own potential and fight for what they believe in.

Moreover, her journey from the Emperor’s Hand to a Jedi Master offers a powerful message of redemption and the possibility of change. Even after serving the dark side for so long, she was able to find her way back to the light, proving that no one is beyond redemption.

Mara Skywalker’s Impact on the Star Wars Universe

Mara Skywalker significantly enriched the Star Wars Expanded Universe. She added depth and complexity to the lore, providing a unique perspective on the events of the galaxy. Her presence challenged the established order, forcing other characters to confront their own beliefs and biases. She was a catalyst for change, pushing the boundaries of what was possible and inspiring others to strive for greatness.

Her legacy extends beyond her individual achievements. She helped to shape the future of the Jedi Order, training new generations of Jedi and contributing to the development of new Force techniques. She also played a crucial role in the New Republic, working to establish peace and stability in the galaxy. [See also: The History of the Jedi Order]

The Future of Mara Skywalker

While Mara Skywalker is currently confined to the Star Wars Legends continuity, her enduring popularity has led many fans to hope for her eventual return to the official canon. There have been numerous calls for her inclusion in future Star Wars projects, whether in films, television series, or books. Whether or not she makes a return remains to be seen, but her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire fans for years to come. The demand for her return is a testament to the character’s enduring appeal and the impact she had on the Star Wars universe.

Even if she doesn’t return in the way fans expect, her spirit of resilience, strength, and redemption continues to resonate within the Star Wars fandom. Mara Skywalker‘s story is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, hope and change are always possible.