Obi-Wan Kenobi (in Marvel Publishing)

• Core Identity: Obi-Wan Kenobi is a legendary human Jedi Master, a member of the Jedi High Council, and a key figure in the history of the Galactic Republic, whose heroic and tragic story has been extensively chronicled across two distinct eras of Marvel Comics publishing. * Key Takeaways: * Role in the Universe: As a licensed property, Obi-Wan Kenobi exists outside of the core Marvel Multiverse (such as earth-616 or the MCU). Within his own “galaxy far, far away,” he serves as a paragon of the Jedi Order: a wise mentor, a peerless warrior, and a steadfast guardian of peace and justice. His adventures published by Marvel define the quintessential Jedi Knight for readers. * Primary Impact: Kenobi's most profound impact is his role as the mentor to both Anakin and Luke Skywalker. His training of Anakin led to the rise of darth_vader, a galaxy-altering tragedy, while his later guidance of Luke was instrumental in the downfall of the Galactic Empire and the restoration of the Jedi. * Key Incarnations: Marvel has published Obi-Wan's story in two major continuities. The “Legends” continuity (1977-1987) presented his initial adventures. The modern “Canon” continuity (2015-present) offers a more cohesive and deeply psychological exploration of the character, aligning with the prequel and original film trilogies, as well as the The Clone Wars animated series. ===== Part 2: Origin and Evolution ===== ==== Publication History and Creation ==== Obi-Wan Kenobi was created by George Lucas and first appeared on screen portrayed by Sir Alec Guinness in Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977). His introduction to the comics world, however, came through Marvel Comics, which launched a groundbreaking adaptation that same year. His first appearance in a Marvel comic was in Star Wars #1 (July 1977), written by Roy Thomas and penciled by Howard Chaykin. This series not only adapted the film but also began telling new stories, making Marvel the initial shepherd of the Star Wars Expanded Universe. This original Marvel run lasted until 1987, establishing a continuity now referred to as “Legends.” For nearly three decades, the Star Wars comic license resided with Dark Horse Comics. In a major industry shift, the license returned to Marvel Comics in 2015 following Disney's acquisition of Lucasfilm. This heralded a new era of Star Wars storytelling at Marvel, with all new material (post-April 2014) considered official “Canon.” Marvel launched a new flagship Star Wars title, alongside numerous character-centric miniseries. Obi-Wan Kenobi has been a central figure in this modern era, with his past being explored in depth in series like Jason Aaron's Star Wars (through the “Journals of Ben Kenobi” arc), Charles Soule's Obi-Wan & Anakin, and Christopher Cantwell's 2022 miniseries, Obi-Wan. These comics have allowed creators to flesh out the periods between the films, adding significant depth, emotional complexity, and context to one of science fiction's most iconic characters. ==== In-Universe Origin Story ==== It is critical to understand that Obi-Wan Kenobi does not exist within the primary Marvel continuities. He has never met the avengers on Earth-616, nor does he exist in the timeline of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His story unfolds in a separate reality published by Marvel. The following origins are based on the two main comic continuities Marvel has presented. === Canon Continuity (as published by Marvel, 2015-Present) === In the modern Canon timeline, Obi-Wan Kenobi's origin is consistent with the Star Wars prequel trilogy, which Marvel's comics have meticulously expanded upon. Born on the planet Stewjon, he was taken to the Jedi Temple on Coruscant as an infant due to his strong connection to the Force. As a youngling, he was trained by Grand Master yoda. As detailed in Marvel's comics, his path to becoming a Jedi Knight was not without difficulty. He was initially a headstrong and sometimes doubtful Padawan. He was eventually chosen as the apprentice of the iconoclastic Jedi Master qui-gon_jinn. Their relationship, explored in Marvel's Master & Apprentice tie-in material, was foundational, with Qui-Gon's focus on the “Living Force” deeply influencing Kenobi's own philosophy. His defining early trial was the Naboo Crisis, where he and his master protected Queen Padmé Amidala. This mission culminated in a tragic duel with the Sith Lord darth_maul. Though Kenobi successfully defeated Maul, he witnessed his master's death, a moment that would haunt him for the rest of his life. Following Qui-Gon's final wish, Kenobi was granted the rank of Jedi Knight and took on Anakin Skywalker as his own Padawan learner. Marvel's Obi-Wan & Anakin miniseries by Charles Soule delves into the complexities of this master-apprentice bond, showing the immense challenge Obi-Wan faced in training the uniquely powerful and emotionally volatile “Chosen One.” This period set the stage for their brotherly relationship and the eventual tragedy that would tear them apart during the Clone Wars, an event chronicled extensively in Marvel's various Star Wars series. === Legends Continuity (as published by Marvel, 1977-1987) === The original Marvel Comics run began with the adaptation of A New Hope. Therefore, Obi-Wan's first appearance was as the mysterious old hermit, “Ben Kenobi,” living in the Jundland Wastes of Tatooine. His backstory was only hinted at, mirroring the enigmatic nature of his film introduction. Readers learned of his past through his dialogue with Luke Skywalker: he was once a Jedi Knight, a general in the Clone Wars, and a friend to Luke's father before he was “betrayed and murdered” by Darth Vader. Unlike the modern canon, the initial Marvel series did not have the prequel trilogy as a reference. The writers had to infer and create their own context for the Clone Wars and the fall of the Jedi. In these early comics, the relationship between Obi-Wan and Anakin was less detailed, and the nature of the Clone Wars was more mysterious. The focus was on Obi-Wan's role as the archetypal wise old mentor, a “wizard” figure guiding the young hero. His origin was less about a detailed biography and more about establishing a mythic past that propelled Luke's journey forward. The concept of him being a member of a Jedi Council or the specifics of his training were not fleshed out until later stories, long after Marvel's original tenure with the license had ended. ===== Part 3: Abilities, Equipment & Personality ===== Obi-Wan Kenobi is a master of the Jedi arts, a skilled diplomat, and a formidable warrior. His portrayal across Marvel's publications highlights a consistent set of core abilities, though with differing nuances between Canon and Legends. === Canon Continuity (Marvel 2015-Present) === Marvel's modern comics present a highly detailed and introspective look at Kenobi's skills and mindset, particularly during his exile on Tatooine. * Powers & Abilities: * Force Mastery: Kenobi is exceptionally powerful and versatile in his use of the Force. His skills include advanced telekinesis (capable of moving large objects and deflecting projectiles), the iconic Jedi Mind Trick for influencing the weak-minded, Force-enhanced speed and agility, and the ability to absorb and redirect energy blasts (Tutaminis). Later in life, he learned from Qui-Gon Jinn's spirit how to manifest his own consciousness after death, becoming a Force Ghost. * Lightsaber Combat: Obi-Wan is universally recognized as the master of Form III, Soresu, the “Way of the Mynock.” This defensive form emphasizes tight, efficient movements to block blaster fire and counter enemy attacks with minimal effort. Marvel's comics often depict him using this form to outlast more aggressive opponents, turning their strength against them. While a master of defense, he was also highly proficient in Form IV, Ataru, an acrobatic and aggressive style he used more in his youth. * Strategic Intellect: Kenobi was one of the most brilliant tacticians in the Jedi Order, earning the title “The Negotiator” during the Clone Wars. Marvel's comics show him leading Republic forces to victory through clever strategy rather than brute force. Even in exile, as seen in the Journals of Ben Kenobi, he uses his intellect to protect Luke from afar, manipulating events to keep the boy safe without revealing his presence. * Equipment: * Lightsaber: Obi-Wan Kenobi has constructed three lightsabers throughout his life. His most iconic weapon, featured in most Marvel comics depicting him post-Naboo, is his third saber. It has a simple, elegant design with a thin neck and a silver and black hilt, emitting a distinctive blue plasma blade. This weapon is a symbol of his identity as a classic Jedi Knight. * Jedi Robes: His traditional tan and brown robes are more than just clothing; they are a symbol of the Jedi Order's humility and detachment from material wealth. As Ben Kenobi on Tatooine, these robes became worn and ragged, serving as a practical garment for the harsh desert environment. * Personality: * Marvel's canon comics, especially the 2022 Obi-Wan miniseries, portray him as witty, patient, and deeply compassionate, but also burdened by immense guilt and sorrow over the fall of Anakin. He is the embodiment of Jedi ideals: calm, thoughtful, and dedicated to the greater good. However, the comics explore the cracks in this facade, showing his moments of doubt, loneliness, and the struggle to maintain hope during the dark times of the Empire's reign. === Legends Continuity (Marvel 1977-1987) === In the original Marvel run, Obi-Wan's abilities were presented in a broader, more mythic fashion, consistent with the tone of the first film. * Powers & Abilities: * The Force: Described more mystically as an “energy field” that gives a Jedi his power, Kenobi's abilities were less defined but no less impressive. He used the Mind Trick, demonstrated telekinetic control (though less overtly than in modern stories), and had a powerful precognitive sense that warned him of danger. His ultimate ability was becoming “more powerful than you can possibly imagine” by transcending death and becoming one with the Force. * Lightsaber Combat: His skill was presented as legendary. He was the Jedi Knight who fought in the Clone Wars, and his duel against Darth Vader on the Death Star was depicted as a battle between two old masters. The specific “forms” of lightsaber combat were not a concept during this era, so he was simply portrayed as an expert swordsman of a forgotten age. * Personality: * The “Ben Kenobi” of the original Marvel series was the quintessential wise old wizard. He was patient, kind, and spoke in cryptic but meaningful ways. He carried the weight of a bygone era and was entirely focused on his final, most important mission: setting Luke Skywalker on his heroic path. There was less emphasis on his personal trauma and more on his role as a necessary catalyst for the story's hero. ===== Part 4: Key Relationships & Network ===== ==== Core Allies ==== * Anakin Skywalker: The most significant relationship in Obi-Wan's life. He was Anakin's master, brother, and best friend. Marvel's comics, particularly Obi-Wan & Anakin, highlight the deep affection and mutual respect between them, as well as the friction caused by Anakin's emotional nature and Obi-Wan's adherence to the Jedi Code. This bond makes Anakin's transformation into darth_vader the ultimate personal failure and source of Kenobi's lifelong grief. * Luke Skywalker: As a boy on Tatooine, Luke was Obi-Wan's secret ward. The Journals of Ben Kenobi storyline in Marvel's Star Wars (2015) is dedicated to showing how Obi-Wan watched over Luke from a distance, protecting him from Jabba the Hutt's thugs, Tusken Raiders, and even the deadly bounty hunter Krrsantan. He saw in Luke the “New Hope” for the galaxy, a chance to redeem the failure he experienced with Anakin. * Qui-Gon Jinn: Obi-Wan's Jedi Master. Though his physical presence in the comics is limited, his influence is immeasurable. Obi-Wan frequently reflects on Qui-Gon's teachings about the Living Force and his maverick-like tendencies. It was through Qui-Gon's spirit that Obi-Wan learned the path to immortality, allowing him to guide Luke after his death. * Ahsoka Tano: While primarily Anakin's Padawan, Ahsoka shared a close, avuncular relationship with Obi-Wan during the Clone Wars. Marvel's comics set during this era depict their collaborative efforts and mutual respect. He viewed her as a skilled and promising Jedi, and her departure from the Order was another significant sorrow for him. ==== Arch-Enemies ==== * Darth Vader: Once his dearest friend, Darth Vader represents the catastrophic culmination of all of Obi-Wan's failures. Their conflict is the emotional core of the Star Wars saga. In the comics, their history is a constant, looming shadow. Their final duel on the Death Star, as depicted in Star Wars #6 (1977), is a somber confrontation, while their earlier, more brutal duel in the Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney+ series (and its comic adaptation) showcases the raw rage and pain that defines their relationship after their schism on Mustafar. * Darth Maul: The Zabrak Sith Lord who murdered Qui-Gon Jinn. Maul became Obi-Wan's first and most persistent nemesis. Their rivalry is one of pure, obsessive hatred. While their final confrontation occurs in the Star Wars Rebels animated series, Marvel's comics have explored their numerous clashes during the Clone Wars, depicting Maul as a dark mirror to Kenobi—driven by passion and a singular desire for revenge. ==== Affiliations ==== * The Jedi Order: For most of his life, the Jedi Order was Obi-Wan's family, his government, and his religion. He was a model Jedi Knight and later served on the Jedi High Council, the ruling body of the Order. Marvel's comics extensively portray his unwavering belief in the Order's principles of peace, knowledge, and selflessness, even as he privately questioned some of its more rigid doctrines. * The Galactic Republic: As a General in the Grand Army of the Republic during the Clone Wars, Obi-Wan served the Republic loyally. He fought on numerous fronts to defend the government from the Separatist threat, all while being unaware that the Republic was being manipulated from within by the Sith Lord Darth Sidious. * The Rebel Alliance: While he never formally joined the Alliance, his actions were instrumental in its formation. By guiding Luke Skywalker and sacrificing himself on the Death Star, he provided the catalyst that allowed the Rebellion to score its first major victory and inspired its most important hero. ===== Part 5: Iconic Events & Storylines (in Marvel Comics) ===== === The Journals of Ben Kenobi (Star Wars, 2015 series) === Woven into the main narrative of Jason Aaron's run on the flagship Star Wars title, this storyline is presented as a diary discovered by Luke Skywalker. Through these entries, readers witness Obi-Wan's lonely vigil on Tatooine between Episodes III and IV. He is depicted as a haunted protector, silently watching over a young Luke. The arcs detail his struggles: grappling with his failure, clashing with Jabba the Hutt's forces to protect the locals from enslavement, and even engaging in a brutal fight with the Wookiee bounty hunter Black Krrsantan. It's a masterful piece of storytelling that provides immense insight into his mindset during his exile. === Obi-Wan & Anakin (2016 miniseries) === Written by Charles Soule with art by Marco Checchetto, this five-issue miniseries explores a previously unseen period a few years after The Phantom Menace. Sent to the desolate planet of Carnelion-4 in response to a mysterious distress call, the story tests the relationship between Master Kenobi and his young, conflicted Padawan. It highlights Anakin's raw power and his temptation by darker paths, and Obi-Wan's struggle to be the patient, wise teacher that he believes Anakin needs. The series is a crucial character study that adds depth and foreshadowing to their eventual tragic fallout. === Obi-Wan (2022 miniseries) === This five-issue series by Christopher Cantwell serves as a companion piece to the Disney+ show and a broader retrospective of Kenobi's life. As an older Ben Kenobi weathers a fierce sandstorm on Tatooine, he records key moments from his past in his journal. Each issue flashes back to a different era: his time as a youngling in the Jedi Temple, a perilous mission as a Padawan with Qui-Gon, a brutal battle during the Clone Wars, and a quiet moment of doubt as a newly minted Jedi Knight. The series is a poignant meditation on memory, purpose, and the burdens carried by a Jedi in a galaxy that has forsaken them. === A New Hope Adaptation (Star Wars, 1977) === The first six issues of Marvel's original Star Wars series were a direct adaptation of the 1977 film. For an entire generation of comic book readers, this was their introduction to Obi-Wan “Ben” Kenobi. Howard Chaykin's art captured the likeness of Alec Guinness, and Roy Thomas's script brought the character's wisdom and mystique to the comic page. His sacrifice in issue #6, allowing the heroes to escape the Death Star, was a foundational moment for Marvel's Star Wars universe and established him as a legendary figure from the very beginning. ===== Part 6: Variants and Alternative Versions ===== While Obi-Wan doesn't have “variants” in the same way as a Marvel character like Loki, his portrayal in different continuities and media serves a similar function for comparison. * Legends (Earth-77): This is the version of Obi-Wan from the original Marvel Comics (1977-1987) and subsequent novels and comics from that era. This Kenobi's history is broader and sometimes contradictory to modern canon. For example, in some Legends material, he had a romantic relationship with fellow Jedi Siri Tachi. His duel with Anakin on Mustafar was also depicted differently in the novelizations compared to the film. This version represents a “what if” timeline for fans of the modern canon. * Canon (Main Continuity): This is the definitive version of the character as he appears in the films, the Clone Wars animated series, and all Marvel comics published from 2015 onwards. This version is more psychologically complex, with his trauma and inner conflicts being a central focus of recent storytelling. * Star Wars Infinities:** While published by Dark Horse, this comic series is Marvel's equivalent of a What If…? title. In Infinities: A New Hope, one story explores a reality where Luke's proton torpedoes fail to destroy the Death Star. In this timeline, Obi-Wan's spirit is unable to guide Luke effectively, leading to a much darker outcome for the galaxy, highlighting his critical importance to the heroes' success.

• darth_vader
• luke_skywalker
• qui-gon_jinn
• yoda
• star_wars_comics

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