The Planets of Star Wars: Naboo

When you read (or watch) a good story, there are several levels of meaning. What actually happens in the story, the plot, is only one level. The plot of Star Wars is fun, and interesting, but there’s more.

This is the first in a series of posts looking into the symbolism of the planets in the Star Wars universe. Students ask me why I want them to think this much about these symbols. It’s because part of the meaning of any story is contained in symbols like these. Some symbols are so common in literature as to be nearly universal. Water is often a symbol of life, and knowing that can help you interpret what you see. For the purposes of these posts, you must remember that water is life.

So, let’s look at Naboo.

Life on the Planet

Of the planets discussed here, Naboo looks the most like Earth. It has plenty of waterfalls, plains, and mountains, as well as two advanced civilizations. The Gallo Mountains divide the only continent on Naboo. North of the mountains live the Naboo, of which Padme is queen in Episode I: The Phantom Menace. South of the mountains are the swamps and underground caves that are home to the Gungan civilization. Nabooan government is democratic.

What Happens Here

The Trade Federation instituted a blockade of the planet in an attempt to force Queen Amidala to sign a treaty that would effectively give them control of the planet. They were working behind the scenes for Darth Sidious, Senator Palpatine of Naboo, who later became Supreme Chancellor of the Republic, then the Emperor. Young Anakin saved the day at the Battle of Naboo by taking out the droid control ship and gained the attention of the Jedi council. Padme and Anakin got married on Naboo.

What the Planet Could Symbolize

Naboo represents ideal civilization. The natural world is part of the landscape without causing undue hardship for the inhabitants. Democracy and peace flourish here. There is plenty of life-giving water. The Naboo have no army and no slaves. The Gungans live under water, showing how full of life Naboo is.

Although Naboo is ideal in many ways, the evil Emperor comes from Naboo. What might George Lucas be saying about the nature of man and society by having the Emperor arise from such a seemingly perfect place?