Original artwork, not a still
I am the Senate!
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
It is the moment the mask drops: the soft-spoken politician says out loud what the saga has been showing, that the Republic's legislature is his instrument. Windu's 'Not yet' makes the exchange even sharper. Fans quote the line for any official who confuses himself with the institution, and it is a staple of prequel memes.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the SithShow the scene
In Revenge of the Sith (2005), Anakin has just told Mace Windu that Chancellor Palpatine is the Sith Lord behind the Clone Wars. Windu leads Jedi Masters Kit Fisto, Agen Kolar and Saesee Tiin to Palpatine's office in the Senate building and arrests him in the name of the Galactic Senate. When Windu says the Senate will decide his fate, Palpatine answers with this line. Windu replies 'Not yet', and Palpatine accuses the Jedi of treason, ignites a hidden lightsaber and kills the other three Masters within seconds.
Sources (2)
- Wookieepedia: Duel in Palpatine's officeOpening quote and Duel narrativeReference checked
- Wikipedia: Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the SithPlotReference checked
Context reviewed
