by Cicely Richard

Created on: August 07, 2008

Since its 1977 release, individuals have studied Star Wars as a philosophical concept. Many of the themes and motifs in the movie can be compared to a number philosophies, mythology, legend and religion. On the web and in some communities, groups come together to discuss the concepts presented in the movies. There is even a movement called the Jedi Church, in which members follow the moral code of a Jedi Knight. At this church, you can even legally get married. This little movie series that almost never was has transcended entertainment into the world of philosophical concepts of many cultures.

In the Star Wars series, the weapon of choice of the Jedi order is the light saber. It represents a civilized form of fighting, as Obi-Wan puts it "an elegant weapon." In the King Arthur legends, the sword is also the weapon used by the Knights of the Round Table. They are highly trained in the use of the sword, just as the Jedi are, and it is to be used in the defense of truth. Another culture in which the sword represents truth and its users are highly skilled is the Japanese Samurai. Just as fighting with the light saber is skillful and artistically, the Samurai look as if they are dancing with the sword. Thus, the light saber, like the swords of the Knights of the Round Table and the Samurai, represents undeniable truth.

The classic battle of good and evil appears in all philosophical concepts. Many like to compare Luke Skywalker to Jesus, but he's more like Moses. They are both the chosen ones to save their people from an evil ruler. When Luke is born, they must hide him to protect him from the powers of the evil force. Moses, too, must be hidden after his birth so as not to be killed by Pharaoh. Luke moves to a deserted planet to live as the son of his aunt and uncle; Moses is hidden in the Nile River until Pharaoh's daughter finds him and raises him as his own. Both must assume the role of savior of their people and lead them toward freedom. On the other hand, Evil, represented by Darth Vader, follows the bible story of Satan. Just as Darth Vader as Anakin is a member of the Jedi order, Satan is one of God's special angels. However, because of their desire for power, they leave the fold and rule the Dark Side with followers of their own.

The final concept that is often overlooked is the way the room in which the Jedi meet resembled the table of the Knights of the Round Table in King Arthur's court. This concept does not appear until the recent incarnation of the Star Wars franchise. When the Jedi council meets to discuss important things about the Republic, they sit in a formation as described in the King Arthur's tales. Both groups work as supplements to the governments of their world.

There are so many other philosophical concepts in the movies that books have been written about them. Overall, it is an adaptation of philosophical themes that exist around the world and can be compared to almost any culture's concepts.

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