Did Anakin Really Care About Obi-Wan During Their Time Together?

Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi's relationship during the Clone Wars was central to their development and the broader narrative of the Star Wars saga. However, as Anakin descended into the dark side, his feelings for Obi-Wan became complex and often questionable.

The Early Years: Friendship and Mentorship

From the outset, Anakin and Obi-Wan shared a deep bond based on friendship, mentorship, and mutual respect. Anakin frequently referred to Obi-Wan as his brother, and they fought side by side in countless battles, forming a strong camaraderie. Their partnership was defined by their trust in each other and the shared goal of protecting the Jedi Order.

The Dark Turn: Paranoia, Betrayal, and the Mustafar Duel

Anakin's descent into the dark side marked a significant shift in his feelings and priorities. By the time of the Mustafar duel, his fear of loss, obsession with power, and the belief that the Jedi were betraying him had clouded his judgment. Palpatine's manipulation played a critical role in Anakin's transformation, and his trust in Obi-Wan was severely compromised.

During their final confrontation on Mustafar, Anakin's actions were driven by a mix of fear, manipulation, and anger. He saw Obi-Wan as a threat, not a friend, and was willing to fight to the death to protect himself and his newfound power. This passionate duel was a reflection of Anakin's struggle with identity and power, rather than a straightforward display of animosity.

Twisted Affection and Trust

It's important to recognize that Anakin's love and loyalty to Obi-Wan were deeply twisted by his emotional turmoil and the influence of the dark side. His actions on Mustafar were not solely about hating Obi-Wan; they were also about Anakin's own internal conflict and his struggle to maintain control over his fears and desires. The fight was more about Anakin's identity and power than a simple rivalry.

Anakin's relationship with Obi-Wan was also complicated by external factors. The tension between Anakin and Obi-Wan increased after Ahsoka's trial, during which the Jedi Council refused to tell him about a faked death. Additionally, Anakin's feelings of betrayal were exacerbated by his fear of losing Padme, as well as his suspicion that Obi-Wan was siding with the council.

From Brother to Enemy: The Role of Padme and the Chancellor

Padme played a significant role in Anakin's complicated feelings for Obi-Wan. When Anakin saw Obi-Wan with Padme, he initially suspected that Padme had brought Obi-Wan to Mustafar to kill him, which further fueled his resentment. This event marked a turning point in their relationship, as Anakin began to see Obi-Wan as an enemy rather than a brother.

Moreover, Anakin's allegiance shifted from Obi-Wan to Darth Sidious, whom he saw as a promise of power and a way to protect Padme. This betrayal of his master and friend led to irreparable damage in their relationship. Over time, Anakin's loyalty became deeply entrenched with Sidious, while his love for Padme and his trust in the Jedi Order waned.

In conclusion, Anakin's relationship with Obi-Wan was a complex interplay of love, loyalty, and betrayal. While he still cared about Obi-Wan at the beginning, his emotional turmoil and the influence of the dark side ultimately led to a deep-seated hatred. The tragic consequences of Anakin's fall are a testament to the power of the dark side and the fragility of trust and friendship.