Luke's Decision to Ignore Rey in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' - A Philosophical Analysis

The decision made by Luke Skywalker in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' to ignore Rey is one of the most contentious moments in the Star Wars saga. This article delves into the reasons behind Luke's actions, emphasizing that it is not illogical, but rather a deeply philosophical choice rooted in themes of redemption, family duty, and the nature of choices.

The Context and Background

'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' is the eighth installment in the Skywalker saga, exploring the aftermath of the Rebellion's victory and the rise of a new threat under the leaders of the First Order. In this film, Luke Skywalker, having gone into self-imposed exile on Ahch-To, emerges with his newfound peacefulness and isolation. This setting plays a crucial role in understanding his consequential decisions, including the rejection of Rey, a younger and more aggressive Force-user who has a clear path to becoming a Knight and facing down Kylo Ren.

Philosophical Foundations of Luke's Choice

The rejection of Rey can be seen through the lens of several philosophical concepts that profoundly shape Luke's actions:

Redemption and the Cycle of Violence

Luke has been seeking redemption and has embraced peace and harmony with the Force. His decision to stop Rey from pursuing Kylo Ren can be seen as an effort to break the cycle of violence and promote understanding and peace, rather than further entrenching their new era in a cycle of conflict. By refusing to directly engage with Kylo Ren, Luke is trying to eliminate the possibility of reinforcing the very conflict he seeks to avoid.

Self-Denial and Solitude

Luke has made a conscious decision to isolate himself from the ongoing conflict to pursue inner peace and self-denial. This isolation is not just physical but also symbolic. It represents a renunciation of the roles of hero and leader that he once held. By ignoring Rey, Luke is purely focusing on his own journey and not getting entangled in familial or personal obligations, which he believes might harm him and others.

The Nature of Power and Responsibility

Taking the powers of the Force can be a heavy responsibility. Luke fears that empowering Rey or involving her in the ongoing conflict might lead to her losing her inner peace and becoming just like Kylo Ren. His actions are born out of a desire to protect Rey from further pain and harm, as well as to maintain his own balance.

Psychological Perspective

Luke's actions can be analyzed from the perspective of psychological development and adult relationships. He is in a stage where he is redefining his identity and role in the world. His rejection of Rey can be seen as a process of separation and individuation, a natural stage in psychological growth where individuals distance themselves from their parents or past identities to establish their own path.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Luke's decision to ignore Rey in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' is a multifaceted choice that aligns with complex philosophical and psychological concepts. It is not a moment of negligence but a deeply considered action rooted in a desire for peace, personal growth, and the prevention of further harm. As a fan of the series, it is important to recognize that such decisions are not merely emotional but reflect a broader narrative of self-discovery and the ongoing struggle with the nature of power and responsibility.