Introduction

Grand Admiral Thrawn is a fictional character from the Star Wars franchise and is one of the most beloved and enduring characters in the series. He was created by Timothy Zahn and first appeared in the 1991 novel, “Heir to the Empire,” the first book in the Thrawn Trilogy. Since then, Thrawn has become a fan favorite, known for his intelligence, strategic genius, and deep understanding of art and culture.

Thrawn is a member of the Chiss species, a blue-skinned humanoid race with red eyes and black hair. He is an Imperial officer and one of the few non-human characters in the Star Wars universe to achieve such a high rank. Thrawn is known for his tactical abilities, his love of art, and his understanding of other cultures. He is a master strategist and is able to anticipate his opponents’ moves before they happen. He is also able to understand an enemy’s culture and use that knowledge to defeat them. Thrawn is not only a military genius, but also a complex and fascinating character.

Thrawn’s character is one of the few villains in the Star Wars franchise who is not defined by evil or malice. He does not seek power or control for its own sake, but rather sees his role as a necessary one to maintain order and protect the galaxy from chaos. He is driven by a desire for knowledge, an appreciation of beauty, and a respect for discipline and order. Thrawn’s adherence to these principles is what makes him such a compelling character, as he is not a typical one-dimensional villain, but a complex and nuanced figure.

Star Wars: The Thrawn Trilogy

Thrawn’s popularity with fans is due in part to his unique personality and abilities, but also to the excellent writing and development of the character by Timothy Zahn. Zahn’s portrayal of Thrawn as a brilliant tactician and an enigmatic figure has captivated readers and viewers for decades.

Star Wars: The Thrawn Trilogy is a series of three novels written by Timothy Zahn and set in the Star Wars universe.

The trilogy consists of the books “Heir to the Empire,” “Dark Force Rising,” and “The Last Command.” It was first published in the early 1990s by Bantam Spectra, and quickly became a best-selling series.

The trilogy takes place five years after the events of Return of the Jedi, and follows the continuing adventures of Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo, as they battle against a new threat to the galaxy: Grand Admiral Thrawn, a brilliant military strategist and tactician who has emerged from the shadows of the defeated Empire to lead a new campaign of conquest.

The Thrawn Trilogy introduced many new characters to the Star Wars universe, including Thrawn himself, Mara Jade (a former assassin who becomes a key ally to Luke Skywalker), and Talon Karrde (a smuggler who becomes embroiled in the struggle against Thrawn). It also brought back several classic characters from the original trilogy, including Chewbacca, C-3PO, and R2-D2.

One of the most notable aspects of the Thrawn Trilogy is its focus on the political and military struggles of the post-Imperial era. The trilogy delves deeply into the power struggles and machinations of the New Republic, as well as the various factions vying for control of the galaxy in the wake of the Empire’s defeat.

The Thrawn Trilogy was widely praised for its strong characterizations, intricate plot, and faithful depiction of the Star Wars universe. It is often credited with reviving interest in the franchise after a period of decline in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The trilogy also inspired a number of follow-up novels and comics, as well as a significant fanbase who consider it to be one of the best entries in the Star Wars canon.

The Thrawn Trilogy is considered part of the Star Wars Legends continuity, which encompasses all of the Star Wars media produced before Disney’s acquisition of Lucasfilm in 2012. As such, it is not officially considered part of the current Star Wars canon.

However, the events and characters introduced in the Thrawn Trilogy have had a significant impact on the Star Wars universe, both in Legends and in the current canon. Many of the concepts introduced in the trilogy, such as the New Republic and Grand Admiral Thrawn, have been incorporated into subsequent Star Wars media, including novels, comics, and TV shows, and continues to be celebrated by fans as one of the best examples of the expanded Star Wars universe.

The Hand of Thrawn

The Hand of Thrawn is a two-book series by author Timothy Zahn set in the Star Wars Expanded Universe, taking place ten years after the events of the original Thrawn Trilogy. The series introduces a new threat to the New Republic in the form of an Imperial Remnant led by a mysterious figure known as the Hand of Thrawn.

The first book, Specter of the Past, begins with the discovery of a seemingly abandoned and forgotten Imperial facility on the planet Nirauan. As the New Republic investigates, they uncover evidence that suggests Thrawn may still be alive and plotting his return. Meanwhile, Luke Skywalker and Mara Jade are sent on a diplomatic mission to the Chiss Ascendancy, where they encounter a young Chiss officer named Mitth’raw’nuruodo (aka Thrawn) who claims to be Thrawn’s nephew.

In the second book, Vision of the Future, the Hand of Thrawn makes his move, launching a series of attacks on New Republic targets and threatening to destabilize the fragile peace that has been established in the galaxy. As the New Republic races to uncover the identity of the Hand of Thrawn and stop his plans, Luke and Mara continue their investigation into Thrawn’s past, uncovering secrets that could change the course of the war.

The Hand of Thrawn series is notable for its exploration of Thrawn’s character and motivations, as well as its depiction of the New Republic’s struggles to maintain order in a post-Imperial galaxy. The series also introduces several new characters, including Mara Jade’s former smuggling partner Talon Karrde, and further develops the relationships between established characters like Luke Skywalker and Han Solo.

Thrawn

In 2017, a new novel titled “Thrawn” was released, written by Timothy Zahn and set in the current Star Wars canon. The novel reintroduces Grand Admiral Thrawn as a key antagonist earlier in the new continuity, and provides a new backstory for the character that differs somewhat from the original Thrawn Trilogy.

Characters

The Thrawn Trilogy is a set of books in the Star Wars Expanded Universe. The main characters in the trilogy are:

• Grand Admiral Thrawn – a brilliant military strategist and tactician who serves as the main antagonist in the trilogy.
• Luke Skywalker – one of the primary heroes of the Star Wars saga and a powerful Jedi Knight.
• Han Solo – a smuggler and former captain of the Millennium Falcon.
• Leia Organa – a former princess of Alderaan and a leader in the Rebel Alliance.
• Talon Karrde – a smuggler and information broker who becomes a key ally to the New Republic.
• Mara Jade – a former agent of the Emperor who becomes an important character in the trilogy and later in the Expanded Universe.
• Admiral Ackbar – a Mon Calamari military commander who serves as a leader in the New Republic.
• Lando Calrissian – a former smuggler and captain of the Millennium Falcon who becomes a general in the New Republic.

Timeline

The Novels follow on from the End of Return of the Jedi.

• 4 ABY: Battle of Endor, Death of Emperor Palpatine, and destruction of the second Death Star. The Rebel Alliance becomes the New Republic.
• 5 ABY: Luke Skywalker discovers a new threat to the New Republic: Grand Admiral Thrawn, a brilliant strategist who commands the remnants of the Imperial Fleet. Thrawn begins a campaign to reunite the fractured Empire and destroy the New Republic.
• 6 ABY: Thrawn launches a series of attacks on the New Republic, using his vast knowledge of art, culture, and military tactics to outmaneuver the Republic’s forces. He captures key planets, including the shipyards at Sluis Van, and steals a valuable cloaking device from the Republic.
• 7 ABY: Thrawn gains the allegiance of the Noghri, a fierce species of assassins, by promising to heal their poisoned homeworld. He also discovers a new weapon, the Katana fleet, a collection of lost Republic ships that he plans to use against the New Republic.
• 8 ABY: Thrawn attacks the New Republic capital planet of Coruscant, using the Katana fleet and his own cunning tactics to trap the Republic’s leaders. However, his plans are foiled by the efforts of Luke Skywalker, Leia Organa Solo, and Han Solo, as well as the treachery of his own bodyguard, Rukh. Thrawn is killed in the Battle of Bilbringi, ending his campaign to reunite the Empire.
• 19 ABY: Mara Jade, a former agent of the Emperor, is forced to work with Luke Skywalker to track down a new threat to the galaxy: a group of clones created from the remains of the Emperor. Together, they uncover a conspiracy by a group called the Hand of Thrawn, which seeks to use a superweapon to destroy the New Republic and restore the Empire to power.
• 20 ABY: The New Republic foils the Hand of Thrawn’s plans, and Mara Jade is accepted as a member of the New Republic’s intelligence service. She begins a romantic relationship with Luke Skywalker and helps to train new Jedi Knights.

The Legacy of Thrawn

The theory is that the Thrawn Trilogy had a significant thematic influence on the sequels, particularly in the way that certain plot elements, characterizations, and technologies were reused in the later films has been previously stated.

The Thrawn Trilogy may have influenced the sequels is in its focus on political intrigue and the machinations of various factions within the Star Wars universe. The Thrawn Trilogy introduced the concept of the New Republic, which was struggling to maintain control in the wake of the fall of the Empire, and this theme of political instability was carried over into the sequels, where the Resistance is depicted as a small band of rebels fighting against a resurgent First Order.

The Sequels reuse of certain technologies, such as cloaking devices and interdictor cruisers, which were first introduced in the earlier books. These technologies played a key role in the strategic battles of the Thrawn Trilogy and were later repurposed in the sequels, such as in the Battle of Crait in The Last Jedi, where the Resistance employs a cloaking device to evade detection.

The sequels are influenced thematically, particularly in its exploration of the gray areas between the light and dark sides of the Force. The character of Thrawn himself was depicted as an honorable adversary who respected his enemies and had a code of ethics, even though he was fighting against the heroes of the story. This moral ambiguity was also explored in the sequels, particularly in the character of Kylo Ren, who struggled with his allegiance to the dark side and was ultimately redeemed in the final film.

Thrawn’s popularity among fans was a driving force behind his continued presence in the franchise, and many of the qualities that made him a compelling antagonist in the Thrawn Trilogy, such as his strategic brilliance and complex motivations shaped aspect of the sequels. These were to be carried over into his later appearances and re-integration within the canon of the Stars Wars franchise.

Grand Admiral Thrawn himself, was reintroduced into the Star Wars canon in the animated series Rebels before making his live-action debut in the final season of The Mandalorian.

The Thrawn Trilogy also introduced several new characters, such as Mara Jade, Talon Karrde, and Gilad Pellaeon, who played significant roles in the later Expanded Universe novels and comics. Mara Jade, in particular, became a fan favorite and was later reintroduced bcak into the canon in the Rebels series and the later Thrawn novels by Timothy Zahn.

Overall, the Thrawn Trilogy has had a lasting impact on the Star Wars franchise, and its themes, characters, and technologies continue to be explored in the later novels, comics, and animated series. The enduring popularity of Grand Admiral Thrawn, in particular, is a testament to the influence of these books on the wider Star Wars canon.

Themes

There are several major themes explored in the Thrawn Trilogy and some examples of how they are developed:

• The nature of leadership and the responsibility of power: The Thrawn Trilogy explores the different ways that characters wield power and authority, and the consequences that result from their decisions. This theme is exemplified by the character of Grand Admiral Thrawn, who is a brilliant military strategist but has a controversial leadership style. Similarly, Princess Leia struggles with her role as a leader of the New Republic, and the challenges she faces as she tries to balance her ideals with the reality of governing a complex society.
• The legacy of the past and the challenges of the present: The Thrawn Trilogy is set in the aftermath of the original Star Wars trilogy, and deals with the aftermath of the fall of the Empire. Characters grapple with the legacy of the past, and the ways in which it continues to shape the present. This is exemplified by the character of Mara Jade, who is a former agent of the Emperor and must come to terms with her past actions.
• The power of redemption and forgiveness: A recurring theme in the Thrawn Trilogy is the idea of redemption and the possibility of forgiveness, even in the face of great evil. This is exemplified by the character of Darth Vader, whose legacy looms large over the trilogy, and the ways in which his actions continue to impact the characters long after his death.
• The importance of personal connections and loyalty: The Thrawn Trilogy emphasizes the importance of personal connections and loyalty, particularly in the face of adversity. This is exemplified by the friendship between Luke Skywalker and Talon Karrde, a smuggler who becomes an unlikely ally to the Jedi, as well as the bond between Han Solo and Chewbacca, who are tested in new ways throughout the course of the trilogy.

The Thrawn Trilogy is a rich and complex work that explores a wide range of themes and ideas, while also providing thrilling action and adventure. It continues to be a beloved part of the Star Wars universe and a favorite among fans of the franchise.

The major themes in the Thrawn Trilogy reoccur in the sequel trilogy (Episodes 7-9):

• Leadership and responsibility of power: This theme is also explored in the sequel trilogy, particularly with regards to characters like Rey, Finn, and Kylo Ren. Like Thrawn and Leia in the Thrawn Trilogy, these characters are thrust into positions of leadership and must grapple with the challenges of wielding power effectively.
• Legacy of the past and challenges of the present: This theme is even more central to the sequel trilogy, as it deals with the legacy of the original Star Wars trilogy and the consequences of the actions of its characters. This is exemplified by the character of Kylo Ren, who struggles with his familial legacy and the dark shadow of Darth Vader.
• Power of redemption and forgiveness: This theme is also present in the sequel trilogy, particularly in the character arc of Ben Solo to Kylo Ren. Like Darth Vader in the Thrawn Trilogy, Kylo Ren is a villain who ultimately seeks redemption and is granted forgiveness by the characters around him.
• Importance of personal connections and loyalty: This theme is present in both the Thrawn Trilogy and the sequel trilogy, with the relationships between characters like Luke Skywalker and Rey, Finn and Poe, and Rey and Kylo Ren serving as key examples.

However, there are also two key differences in the way these themes are developed:

• The Thrawn Trilogy is more focused on military strategy and political intrigue, while the sequel trilogy places a greater emphasis on character development and the emotional journeys of its heroes and villains.
• The Thrawn Trilogy takes place in the expanded Star Wars universe, while the sequel trilogy is part of the main film canon, which may also impact the way these themes are explored.

The Hidden Fleet

In the Thrawn Trilogy, Grand Admiral Thrawn discovers a hidden fleet of warships called the Katana fleet, which had been lost for years. Thrawn uses the fleet to launch a surprise attack on the New Republic and gain an advantage in the ongoing conflict.

Similarly, in the sequel trilogy, the Sith cult on Exegol has been secretly building a massive fleet of warships called the Final Order, which they plan to use to conquer the galaxy and restore the power of the Sith. Like the Katana fleet in the Thrawn Trilogy, the Final Order fleet represents a significant threat that the heroes must overcome in order to save the galaxy.

While the specific circumstances and context are different in the two trilogies, the idea of a hidden fleet of powerful warships that can tip the balance of power is a recurring motif in Star Wars storytelling. It reflects the idea that even in a galaxy as vast as the Star Wars universe, there are always hidden threats and dangers waiting to be uncovered.

Hyperspace Weapons

The Imperial Interdictor ships of the Thrawn trilogy were designed to create gravity wells that could pull ships out of hyperspace. This was a useful tool for the Empire to catch and trap enemy ships, preventing them from escaping. It was a passive tactic that relied on the ships’ gravity well generators and required the enemy ships to come to them.

In the sequel trilogy, the technology used to pull ships out of hyperspace is called a hyperspace tracker. This device is used by the First Order to track the movements of Resistance ships through hyperspace, allowing them to intercept and attack their targets. The hyperspace tracker is a significant technological advancement, as it allows the First Order to locate and pursue ships that are trying to escape through hyperspace, which was previously believed to be impossible.

The technology is based on the research and development of the Galactic Empire’s Interdictor-class Star Destroyers, which used gravity well projectors to pull ships out of hyperspace.

The relativistic attack on the Supremacy was an active tactic that required a skilled pilot to execute. The attack involved accelerating a small ship to near-light speed and then ramming it into the target ship. This caused massive damage and destruction to the target ship. It was a desperate move made by the Resistance, as they had no other means to destroy the Supremacy’s shields.

In terms of effectiveness, the Interdictor ships were useful in capturing enemy ships, but they were not capable of causing significant damage. The relativistic attack, on the other hand, was a devastating blow to the Supremacy, although it required a lot of sacrifice.

Cloning Technology

Joruus C’baoth is a clone of the Jedi master Jorus C’baoth, who had died before the events of the Thrawn Trilogy. The clone is created by the insane dark Jedi Joruus C’baoth, who seeks to use his clone to manipulate and control Luke Skywalker and Leia Organa Solo.

Like Palpatine in the sequel trilogy, Joruus C’baoth is a cloned, irrational but powerful and dangerous figure who seeks to impose his will on the galaxy through any means necessary. The thematic connections between Joruus C’baoth and Palpatine are not as direct or intentional as they might seem at first glance.

There are some similarities and differences in the technology used by Joruus C’baoth and Palpatine to make clones of themselves in the Star Wars expanded universe.

Firstly, both characters are able to use advanced cloning technology to create duplicates of themselves. However, the specifics of the technology are different.

Palpatine’s cloning technology is said to be based on research conducted by the Sith on the ancient world of Exegol. This technology allows Palpatine to create fully formed clones with all of his memories and abilities intact. Palpatine also claims that the process of cloning him weakens his physical body, which is why he needs to transfer his consciousness to a new host body.

Joruus C’baoth’s cloning technology is said to be based on his own research into the Force. C’baoth claims that he is able to use the Force to manipulate the genetic material of his clones and imbue them with some of his own Force abilities. However, the clones he creates are not perfect copies of himself, and they are often unstable and prone to madness.

Another difference between the two characters is that Palpatine’s cloning technology is shown to be more advanced and reliable. In the sequel trilogy, Palpatine is able to create an entire army of clones on Exegol, as well as several backup clones of himself in case his primary body is destroyed. In contrast, Joruus C’baoth’s clones are shown to be imperfect and short-lived, and they are ultimately unable to help him achieve his goals.

While both Palpatine and Joruus C’baoth use cloning technology to create duplicates of themselves, the specifics of the technology and the purposes it serves are different. Palpatine’s cloning technology is shown to be more advanced and reliable, while Joruus C’baoth’s cloning technology is more closely tied to his own Force abilities and is ultimately less successful.

Droids

In the Thrawn Trilogy, which takes place five years after the events of Return of the Jedi, computers and droids are used primarily for logistical purposes. They assist in tasks such as data analysis, communication, and navigation. However, they are not as central to the plot as they are in the sequel trilogy.

In the sequel trilogy, which takes place about 30 years after the events of Return of the Jedi, computers and droids are more prominently featured. BB-8, a spherical droid, is a central character and plays a key role in the plot. Additionally, the First Order, the successor to the Empire, uses advanced technology and artificial intelligence to maintain its power.

The use of computers and droids in the Thrawn trilogy is an evolution from the Original Star Wars trilogy more subdued and focused on practical applications, while in the sequel trilogy, they are more integral to the plot and demonstrate a greater reliance on technology in the Star Wars universe. This is also widely reflective of real world difference between between 1990’s and 2020’s culture and increased reliance on technology.

Imperial and and First Order Tactics

The Thrawn Trilogy and the sequel trilogy both involve military conflict, but the use of military tactics differs between the two.

In the Thrawn Trilogy, Grand Admiral Thrawn, the main antagonist, is a brilliant strategist who is able to analyze his enemies’ art and culture to predict their next moves. He also employs psychological warfare, such as using art to manipulate his enemies’ emotions. Thrawn also places a great emphasis on information-gathering and intelligence work, using both spies and technology to learn about his opponents. The Empire in the Thrawn Trilogy is also portrayed as a more disciplined and organized military force than in the original trilogy.

In contrast, the sequel trilogy focuses more on the personal conflicts of its main characters, rather than military tactics. The First Order, the main antagonist in the sequel trilogy, is portrayed as more fanatical and less organized than the Empire in the Thrawn Trilogy.

Their tactics involve brute force and overwhelming firepower, such as using their Starkiller Base to destroy entire planets. The Resistance, the main protagonists, rely more on small-scale guerrilla tactics and individual heroism.

Thrawn Trilogy places a greater emphasis on military strategy and intelligence, while the sequel trilogy focuses more on personal conflict and spectacle.

Thrawn’s Tactics

Grand Admiral Thrawn was known for his tactical brilliance and strategic thinking. He was a master of military strategy, and his tactics often revolved around using the enemy’s strengths against them.

Here are some examples of Thrawn’s tactics, both successful and unsuccessful:

• Surprise attacks: Thrawn often used surprise attacks to catch his enemies off guard. For example, in the Thrawn Trilogy, he launches a surprise attack on the New Republic fleet at Sluis Van by using a cloaked interdictor cruiser to pull them out of hyperspace.
• Diversionary tactics: Thrawn was a master of using diversionary tactics to distract his enemies while he carried out his true objective. In the Thrawn Trilogy, he sends a fleet to attack the planet Coruscant, knowing that the New Republic will divert resources to defend it, while he launches a separate attack on the planet Bilbringi.
• Psychological warfare: Thrawn was known for his ability to use psychological warfare to demoralize his enemies. For example, in the Thrawn Trilogy, he sends a message to the New Republic, telling them that he has kidnapped their families and will kill them unless they surrender.
• Studying the enemy: Thrawn was always studying his enemies, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses. He often used this knowledge to anticipate their moves and counter them effectively. For example, he correctly predicts that the New Republic will use their B-wing starfighters in a particular battle, and he prepares his defenses accordingly.

While Thrawn’s tactics were often successful, he did have his share of failures. For example he is ultimately defeated by a combination of factors, including the unexpected intervention of a Jedi, the defection of one of his own officers, and the betrayal of a subordinate. Nonetheless, Thrawn remains one of the most feared and respected tacticians in the Star Wars universe.

Thrawn’s Remnants of the Imperial Forces and the First Order the had different tactics in their approach to war and military strategy.

Thrawn was a master of understanding his enemy’s strengths and weaknesses, and using that knowledge to gain an advantage on the battlefield. Thrawn was able to analyze and adapt to any situation, creating unorthodox and unexpected strategies that often caught his enemies off guard. He believed in using intelligence, subterfuge, and psychological manipulation to defeat his opponents, rather than simply overwhelming them with brute force.

One example of Thrawn’s success was his use of a disguised Noghri commando team to capture Leia Organa in the novel “Heir to the Empire”. Thrawn knew that Leia would be more likely to trust Noghri, a race known for their loyalty, and used this knowledge to his advantage. Another example was his use of captured smugglers to infiltrate and sabotage the New Republic’s shipyards in “Dark Force Rising”.

The First Order, led by Supreme Leader Snoke and later by Kylo Ren, relied heavily on brute force and intimidation to maintain their control over the galaxy. They were willing to sacrifice their own troops and resources to achieve their objectives, often using overwhelming firepower to crush their enemies. The First Order’s tactics were focused on instilling fear and demonstrating their power, rather than on strategic planning and coordination.

However, Thrawn’s tactics were not always successful. In “The Last Command”, Thrawn attempted to use cloned Jedi warriors to fight against the New Republic, but the plan ultimately failed due to his underestimation of their willpower and the influence of the Force. Suimilraily, Palpatine’s use of cloned Sith on Exogol proved ineffective. Thrawn’s tactical prowess, like First Orders brute force was not enough to save them from his own arrogance and underestimation of his enemies, which ultimately led to his downfall.

Thrawn and the First Order had different approaches to military strategy. While the First Order relied on overwhelming force and intimidation, Thrawn’s tactics focused on analyzing his enemy and using subterfuge to gain the upper hand. While Thrawn was successful in many of his battles, his downfall was similar to that of the First Order and the Final Order, showed that even the best tactics cannot always overcome hubris and complacency

The Leaders

Grand Admiral Thrawn

Thrawn is a highly intelligent and strategic military leader from the Chiss species who rose through the ranks of the Imperial Navy to become a Grand Admiral. He is known for his analytical mind and ability to quickly assess his opponent’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as his tactical brilliance in battle. Thrawn is a self-taught expert on various species and cultures, which he uses to his advantage in his strategies. Thrawn is a strategic genius and a tactical mastermind who is widely regarded as one of the most brilliant military minds in the galaxy. Thrawn is highly respected by his subordinates and peers for his leadership skills and his ability to inspire loyalty and respect.

General Armitage Hux

Armitage Hux is a highly ambitious and ruthless officer in the First Order who is known for his fanatical loyalty to Supreme Leader Snoke and later to Kylo Ren.

He is known for his fiery and passionate speeches, his willingness to resort to extreme measures to achieve his goals, and his tendency to be rash and impulsive. Hux relies heavily on brute force, intimidation, and fear to maintain his power and authority within the First Order.

Hux is a human officer, born into a military family and trained in the traditions of the Galactic Empire. He has no force powers, but is a skilled tactician and strategist. Hux has risen to a high-ranking military officer in the First Order, serving as its General and overseeing its ground forces. Hux’s tactics are generally more straightforward and predictable. He relies heavily on brute force and intimidation, using overwhelming firepower and brute force to crush his opponents. He is willing to take extreme measures to achieve his goals, including the use of superweapons and genocide. While this approach can be effective in certain situations, it can also be risky and can lead to unnecessary losses if not executed properly.

Hux starts off as a loyal servant of the First Order and its ideology of human supremacy, but is also ambitious and willing to betray his superiors to advance his own position. He is shown to be envious of Kylo Ren’s favor with Snoke and plots to overthrow him.

Supreme Leader Snope

Snoke is a mysterious and powerful figure who emerges as the leader of the First Order, the remnants of the defeated Empire. His origins and background are largely unknown, and he is presented as an enigmatic and intimidating presence, possessing significant Force powers. Snoke’s primary role in the story is to serve as a master to Kylo Ren and an antagonist to the heroes of the Resistance. He is revealed to be a powerful dark side user with a disfigured appearance and a connection to the ancient Sith.

Snoke is subtle and manipulative in his leadership style, using his charisma and force powers to control his subordinates and shape the destiny of the First Order. Snoke becomes more impulsive and ruthless, using his immense power and authority to crush his enemies, using his power to turn Kylo Ren against his own father and to manipulate the events of the sequel trilogy for his own ends. In terms of their tactics, Thrawn tends to rely on careful planning and analysis, using his knowledge of his opponents to gain an advantage.

While that are all are effective leaders, Thrawn’s approach is more methodical and calculated, Hux and Snoke’s are both more aggressive, impulsive and domineering. Thrawn’s analytical and unconventional approach contrasting sharply with Hux’s reliance on First Order doctrine of brute force and fear. Thrawn’s tactics are often successful because he is able to think outside the box and to use his opponents’ expectations against them. He is also highly skilled in the art of deception, using misdirection and psychological warfare to gain the upper hand in battle.

Lando Calrissian

Lando Calrissian is a character in the Star Wars franchise who first appeared in The Empire Strikes Back and became a key player in the original trilogy. He is a former smuggler turned administrator who owns a mining facility on the planet of Bespin called Cloud City. He is known for his charm, wit, and loyalty to his friends.

• In the Thrawn Trilogy, Lando plays a significant role in the New Republic’s efforts to defeat Grand Admiral Thrawn. He assists in the battle for Bilbringi, where he leads a starfighter squadron and helps to disable the cloaking device on Thrawn’s flagship, the Chimaera. He also helps to uncover a traitor within the New Republic, which leads to the discovery of Thrawn’s cloning facility on Wayland.
• In the sequel trilogy, Lando makes a brief appearance in The Rise of Skywalker, where he is portrayed as an older man who has retired from his days as a smuggler and is now living on the desert planet of Pasaana. He helps the Resistance by providing them with information about the location of the Sith fleet and leads a charge of allies in the final battle against the First Order.

Lando Calrissian is known for his bravery and loyalty to his friends. He played similar important roles in both the Thrawn Trilogy and the sequel trilogy, demonstrating his ability to adapt to changing circumstances and remain a key player in the fight against evil forces.

Admiral Ackbar

Admiral Ackbar is a prominent character in the Star Wars universe, known for his strategic genius and leadership abilities. He is a member of the Mon Calamari species and serves as the commander of the Rebel Alliance’s capital ships in the original trilogy.

In the Thrawn Trilogy, Ackbar plays a key role in the defense of the New Republic against the resurgent Empire led by Grand Admiral Thrawn. He helps to organize the defense of Coruscant and other key worlds, and is instrumental in the eventual defeat of Thrawn.

In the sequel trilogy, Ackbar returns as an elderly leader of the Resistance. He is shown to still possess his sharp strategic mind and is a trusted advisor to General Leia Organa. In The Last Jedi, Ackbar leads the Resistance’s attack on the First Order’s flagship, the Supremacy. However, he is tragically killed when the ship is destroyed, sacrificing himself to save others.

There are some similarities in Ackbar’s character and plot across both the Thrawn Trilogy and the sequel trilogy. In both, he is shown to be a brilliant strategist and a dedicated leader who is willing to put himself in harm’s way for the greater good. Additionally, both versions of Ackbar are involved in key battles against overwhelming odds and play critical roles in the ultimate success of their respective causes.

Talon Karrde

Talon Karrde is a human smuggler and information broker who operates in the Outer Rim and is known for his shrewd business sense and extensive network of contacts.

Karrde was born on Myrkr, a planet known for its dangerous flora and fauna. He was orphaned at a young age and taken in by the smuggler Shada D’ukal, who taught him the ways of the trade. Karrde eventually took over D’ukal’s organization and built it into a powerful network of smugglers and information brokers.

During the Galactic Civil War, Karrde maintained a neutral stance and did business with both the Rebel Alliance and the Galactic Empire. He was known to have close ties with Grand Admiral Thrawn, the leader of the Empire’s military forces, and played a role in Thrawn’s efforts to track down a hidden fleet of Imperial warships.

After the fall of the Empire, Karrde continued to operate in the Outer Rim and became involved in the New Republic’s efforts to track down and eliminate any remaining Imperial threats. He also played a role in the search for the long-lost Jedi Master Jorus C’baoth.

Karrde is known for his calm demeanor, strategic thinking, and ability to maintain a vast network of contacts across the galaxy. He is a skilled negotiator and businessman, and is often sought out for his expertise and knowledge of the criminal underworld.

In the sequel trilogy, there is no character that can be directly considered an equivalent to Talon Karrde. However, there are a few characters that share certain traits or characteristics with Karrde.

One of the most notable characters is Maz Kanata, who runs a cantina on the planet Takodana. Like Karrde, Maz is a shrewd businesswoman who is well-connected and has a network of spies and informants. She also has a reputation for being able to obtain hard-to-find objects and information.

Another character that could be considered similar to Karrde is DJ, a codebreaker who is encountered by Finn and Rose on the casino planet of Canto Bight in “The Last Jedi”. Like Karrde, DJ is a rogue who is not aligned with either the Resistance or the First Order. He also has a talent for obtaining information and resources that others cannot.

While these characters are not exact equivalents to Talon Karrde, they do share some similarities in terms of their skills, connections, and resourcefulness.

Mara Jade

Mara Jade is a fictional character in the Star Wars universe. She was first introduced in the 1991 novel “Heir to the Empire” by Timothy Zahn as a former assassin and smuggler who becomes an ally to Luke Skywalker and the New Republic.

Mara was orphaned at a young age and was taken in by the Emperor Palpatine, who trained her as one of his personal agents, known as the Emperor’s Hand. She was skilled in combat and espionage, and was fiercely loyal to the Empire.

After the death of the Emperor at the Battle of Endor, Mara became a rogue agent and began working as a smuggler. She was hired by the warlord Talon Karrde, who became her mentor and friend. Mara eventually crossed paths with Luke Skywalker, who sensed her connection to the Force and began training her as a Jedi.

Throughout the course of the Expanded Universe novels, Mara Jade became a key ally to Luke Skywalker and the New Republic, and eventually fell in love with and married Luke. She was a popular and beloved character among fans, and her storylines often explored themes of redemption and forgiveness.

In the new canon established after Disney’s acquisition of Lucasfilm, Mara Jade has not yet been reintroduced, and it is unknown if she will be included in future Star Wars projects.

In the sequel trilogy, there are no characters that have a direct equivalent to Mara Jade. However, there are some characters who share certain similarities or traits with her. For example:

• Rey: Like Mara Jade, Rey is a strong, capable female character who is adept at fighting and has a connection to the Force. Both characters also have a mysterious past that is gradually revealed over the course of the story. Rey, Like Mara is trained by Luke. Mara, like Rey bring Luke out of himself and provides with purpose.
• Jannah: Jannah is a former stormtrooper who joins the Resistance and fights against the First Order. Like Mara Jade, they both transfer loyalties to the resistance. She is a skilled fighter and has a strong sense of loyalty to her cause.
• Captain Phasma: While Captain Phasma is a villain rather than a hero like Mara Jade, she shares some similarities with the character. Both are highly skilled fighters and have a strong sense of loyalty to their respective causes.

Comparisons

Here are some other comparisons between characters in the sequels and their near counterparts in the Thrawn trilogy:

• Rey and Mara Jade: Both characters are skilled in combat and have a strong sense of justice. Mara Jade was a former Emperor’s Hand who joined the New Republic and became a skilled Jedi, while Rey was a scavenger on Jakku who discovered she was strong with the Force and became a Jedi in training.
• Kylo Ren and Joruus C’baoth: Both characters have a connection to the Force and a desire to rule the galaxy. Joruus C’baoth was a mad clone of a Jedi master who sought to create a new Jedi order and take control of the galaxy, while Kylo Ren was a conflicted Sith apprentice who sought to continue the legacy of his grandfather, Darth Vader, and rule the galaxy with the First Order.
• General Hux and Captain Pellaeon: Both characters are high-ranking officers in the Imperial military. Captain Pellaeon was a loyal officer who served under Grand Admiral Thrawn and later helped negotiate a peace treaty with the New Republic, while General Hux was a fanatical officer who served under Supreme Leader Snoke and later under Kylo Ren in the First Order.
• Finn and Wedge Antilles: Both characters were former stormtroopers who defected to the side of the Rebellion/New Republic. Wedge Antilles was a skilled pilot who fought in the Battle of Yavin and later served as a general in the New Republic, while Finn was a stormtrooper who defected to the Resistance and became a key member of the fight against the First Order.
• Thrawn and Kylo Ren – Thrawn and Kylo Ren are both formidable leaders who command respect from their subordinates. However, while Thrawn is calm, calculating, and strategic, Kylo Ren is more impulsive and driven by his emotions.
• Eli Vanto and Finn – Eli Vanto and Finn are both former members of a military organization who defect to the other side. However, while Finn is motivated by a desire for freedom and a sense of right and wrong, Eli Vanto is more concerned with personal growth and finding his place in the galaxy.
• Governor Pryce and General Hux – Governor Pryce and General Hux are both high-ranking members of the Empire/First Order who are ruthless in their pursuit of power. However, while Pryce is more subtle in her approach and willing to work behind the scenes, Hux is more overt and willing to take extreme measures to achieve his goals.
• Arihnda Pryce and Captain Phasma – Arihnda Pryce and Captain Phasma are both high-ranking female officers in the Empire/First Order who are known for their toughness and loyalty. However, while Pryce is more politically savvy and willing to do whatever it takes to advance her career, Phasma is more of a warrior and values strength above all else.
• Thrawn and Poe Dameron – Thrawn and Poe Dameron are both skilled pilots and tacticians who play important roles in their respective conflicts. However, while Thrawn is more strategic and methodical in his approach, Poe is more of a risk-taker and willing to improvise in order to achieve his objectives

Overall, while there are some similarities between characters in the sequels and their counterparts in the Thrawn trilogy, the characters in the sequels tend to be more complex and multi-dimensional, with more detailed backstories and motivations.

Additionally, the characters in the sequels tend to focus more on themes of redemption, hope, and the power of individual agency, while in the Thrawn trilogy, they focuses more on military strategy, political intrigue, and the consequences of war.

Star Wars: Thrawn – Canon

The canon novels Thrawn, Thrawn: Alliances, and Thrawn: Treason are a trilogy of books by author Timothy Zahn, which focus on the character of Grand Admiral Thrawn, a fan-favorite villain from the Legends novels.

The later Thrawn trilogy, consisting of the novels “Thrawn”, “Thrawn: Alliances” and “Thrawn: Treason”, is part of the Disney Canon and takes place before the events of the original Star Wars trilogy.

These novels focus on the character of Thrawn and his rise through the ranks of the Imperial Navy.

Thrawn takes place before the events of Star Wars Rebels, and tells the story of Thrawn’s rise to power within the Empire. Thrawn is an alien from the planet Chiss, and his tactical brilliance and strategic mind make him a valuable asset to the Empire. Thrawn is sent to the Imperial Academy, where he quickly rises through the ranks, catching the attention of Emperor Palpatine himself. Thrawn’s loyalty to the Empire is tested when he is sent on a mission to uncover a conspiracy within the Imperial Navy.

Thrawn: Alliances takes place after the events of Thrawn and features Thrawn teaming up with none other than Darth Vader on a mission to a remote planet in the Unknown Regions. There, they encounter a threat to the Empire that requires their combined talents to defeat.

Thrawn: Treason takes place after the events of Thrawn: Alliances and focuses on Thrawn’s role in the Empire during the events of the original Star Wars trilogy. Thrawn is tasked with defending the Empire against a growing threat from the Rebel Alliance, while also uncovering a traitor within the Empire’s ranks.

Throughout the trilogy, Thrawn’s strategic brilliance and tactical mind are on full display as he navigates the complicated politics and power struggles of the Empire. The novels also explore Thrawn’s relationships with other characters, such as his protégé, Eli Vanto, and the Emperor himself.

The later Thrawn trilogy ties into the larger Disney Canon by introducing characters and events that are relevant to the sequel trilogy. For example, “Thrawn: Alliances” features a young Han Solo and Lando Calrissian, while “Thrawn: Treason” ties into the events of “Star Wars: Rebels” and the larger conflict between the Empire and the Rebellion.

Overall, the later Thrawn trilogy adds depth and complexity to the Star Wars universe, while also setting the stage for the events of the sequel trilogy.

Thrawn’s popularity led to his inclusion in the animated series “Star Wars Rebels,” where he became a major character in the show’s third and fourth seasons.

In “Star Wars Rebels,” Thrawn is once again portrayed as a complex and multifaceted character. He is a ruthless strategist, but also a man of culture and sophistication. He is a formidable opponent, but also a respected leader who commands the loyalty of his subordinates. Thrawn’s interactions with the show’s main characters, especially the Jedi Kanan Jarrus and the rebel leader Hera Syndulla, provide insight into his character and motivations.

Thrawn’s enduring popularity is a testament to the skillful writing and development of the character by Timothy Zahn, as well as his unique personality and abilities. His inclusion in the animated series “Star Wars Rebels” has further cemented his place in the Star Wars canon and has introduced him to a new generation of fans.

Thrawn is a fascinating character whose popularity is sure to endure for years to come.

Major Appearances

Here listing all the Thrawn books, comics, and media:

Title	Type	Author	Publisher	Release Date
Heir to the Empire	Novel	Timothy Zahn	Bantam Spectra	May 1991
Dark Force Rising	Novel	Timothy Zahn	Bantam Spectra	June 1992
The Last Command	Novel	Timothy Zahn	Bantam Spectra	April 1993
Specter of the Past	Novel	Timothy Zahn	Bantam Spectra	May 1997
Vision of the Future	Novel	Timothy Zahn	Bantam Spectra	September 1998
Outbound Flight	Novel	Timothy Zahn	Del Rey	January 2006
Thrawn	Novel	Timothy Zahn	Del Rey	April 2017
Thrawn: Alliances	Novel	Timothy Zahn	Del Rey	July 2018
Thrawn: Treason	Novel	Timothy Zahn	Del Rey	July 2019
Thrawn: Ascendancy (Book I: Chaos Rising)	Novel	Timothy Zahn	Del Rey	September 2020
Thrawn: Ascendancy (Book II: Greater Good)	Novel	Timothy Zahn	Del Rey	April 2021
Thrawn: Ascendancy (Book III: Lesser Evil)	Novel	Timothy Zahn	Del Rey	November 2021
Thrawn: The Comic	Comic	Jody Houser	Marvel Comics	February 2018
Thrawn: Alliances	Comic	Jody Houser	Marvel Comics	June 2019
Thrawn: Treason	Comic	Jody Houser	Marvel Comics	February 2020
Star Wars Rebels	Animated Series	Dave Filoni	Disney XD	2014 – 2018
The Mandalorian	Live-action series	Jon Favreau	Disney+	2019 – present

Note: This list may not include every single appearance of Thrawn in the Star Wars canon, but it includes the major works where he is a prominent character.