After numerous media showcasing the eras of the Old Republic and the Galactic Empire, Star Wars The Acolyte instead tells its story during the end of the High Republic era.
Considered the galaxy’s golden age in the Star Wars universe, many things fans know of are different during this period. One example is the Jedi Order, which is considered extinct and in chaos in most Star Wars media.
The Acolyte perfectly shows what the Jedi Order looked like at its prime, but the Order is uncannily different from what most fans are familiar with.
Usually depicted as an extinct order and later revived by Luke Skywalker in the later period of the canonical timeline, the Jedi Order was shown to be a military powerhouse throughout the franchise.
In recent media, the Order has not seemed in top shape, with Jedis turning to the ways of the Sith and Sithlords exterminating the rest of the Jedi. However, in The Acolyte, Jedi are abundant and can be seen in different temples and public places doing their duties.
The High Republic was an era of peace and prosperity, and the Jedi Order is working with the Galactic Republic to maintain peace and unity within the galaxy.
During this period of solitude, Jedi were spread all over the galaxy, each policing a community or an area. Jedi are responsible for maintaining law and order and resolving various conflicts from all factions.
The Jedi Order is also more welcoming and accommodating, even taking in an orphaned Osha to become a padawan of Jedi Master Sol, in contrast to Anakin’s acceptance as a padawan in front of the Jedi Council during the events of The Phantom Menace.
Jedi who want to have their separate way without the guidance of the Jedi Council is also prominent. The Barash Vow, demonstrated by Master Torbin in Episode 2, became popular during this era.
The Jedi Order allowed the practice of this vow, which disconnects Jedi from any responsibilities from the Jedi Order and connects more to the Force. Osha also became a meknek after abandoning her training to become a Jedi, contrary to previous media, which only depicted former Jedis as runaways, hermits, or Sith.
This apex time for the Jedi is of peace and maintaining unity across the universe, which made them seem a tad more different than the Jedi fans are used to in previous Star Wars media.
While this may be the case, future episodes of The Acolyte will bring more light to the Order's activities during the High Republic era.
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