Original artwork, not a still
I've been waiting for you, Obi-Wan. We meet again, at last. The circle is now complete. When I left you, I was but the learner. Now I am the master.
— Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope · 1977
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
This is the first hint that these two share a past: years before the prequels, the line tells the audience that Vader was once Obi-Wan's pupil and has outgrown him. It is the film's cold-open of a rivalry, and fans still quote it, usually in a deep breathy voice, when they meet an old rival or a former teacher.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for Star Wars: Episode IV - A New HopeShow the scene
Deep in the Death Star, Obi-Wan Kenobi has crept toward the tractor-beam controls to free the Millennium Falcon, and Darth Vader, who sensed his old master's presence, is waiting. In a corridor near the docking bay, the Dark Lord greets him with a line that names their history: they meet again, the circle is complete, and the pupil is now the master. Obi-Wan answers that Vader is only a master of evil, and the two ignite their lightsabers. Luke, Han and Leia reach the Falcon in time to see the duel's end. On set Vader was played by David Prowse, with James Earl Jones providing the voice.
Sources (3)
- Wikiquote: Star Wars (film)Obi-Wan and Vader duelReference checked
- Wikipedia: Star Wars (film)PlotReference checked
- Wookieepedia: Darth VaderPortrayalReference checked
Context reviewed
