Ronin

In the Star Wars universe, the term "ronin" often refers to a masterless samurai and can be used to describe certain characters or concepts that embody attributes similar to those of a traditional Japanese ronin. The term itself originates from Japanese history, where ronin were wandering samurai without a lord or master, sometimes due to their own master's death or disgrace.

One example of Star Wars characters that can be considered as ronin is the wandering Jedi, who, much like the traditional ronin, embark on a journey and sets aside their allegiance to a specific faction. These Jedi forsake the traditional path taken by the members of the Jedi Order, often distancing themselves from the Jedi Council and refusing to take part in the larger conflicts within the galaxy. They follow their own moral compass and beliefs, while still retaining their mastery of The Force and lightsaber combat.

In Star Wars literature, such as comics and novels, the theme of ronin has been explored through storylines following Jedi who have distanced themselves from the Jedi Order, as well as the aftermath of Order 66 in which many Jedi were forced into hiding. A notable example of a ronin-like character is Jax Pavan, who evaded capture after the Great Jedi Purge, and made a living as a private investigator on the streets of Coruscant while secretly using his Jedi abilities.

Beyond the character archetypes and storylines, Star Wars has often taken visual cues and inspiration from the world of samurai and ronin, as seen in the design of costumes, weapons, and architecture. This is not surprising, as George Lucas, the creator of the Star Wars saga, has cited the influence of renowned Japanese filmmaker Akira Kurosawa in the development of the franchise. Kurosawa's films, such as 'Seven Samurai' and 'The Hidden Fortress,' often featured ronin or samurai-inspired characters and themes.

The upcoming novel titled 'Star Wars: Ronin: A Visions Novel' is an example of the continuing exploration of the ronin concept within the Star Wars universe. Written by Emma Mieko Candon and scheduled for release in October 2021, this novel is an extension of the highly anticipated animated anthology series, 'Star Wars: Visions,' which will retell iconic moments of the Star Wars saga through the lens of the world's best Japanese anime creators.

The novel 'Star Wars: Ronin: A Visions Novel' focuses on a former Sith who has wandered the galaxy for years after the fall of the Sith Empire. Carrying the title of ronin, this mysterious character faces adversity and unexpected alliances as they navigate a world full of intrigue and the remnants of the Sith way.

the concept of ronin in the Star Wars universe is encapsulated in characters who are masterless or distanced from their original affiliations, much like the traditional Japanese samurai. These characters often walk a different path from established orders, such as the Jedi or Sith, and follow their own conscience. As the franchise continues to expand and explore various aspects of its vast and diverse universe, the ronin archetype will likely remain a significant and intriguing element of Star Wars storytelling.