Original artwork, not a still
Governor Tarkin, I should've expected to find you holding Vader's leash. I recognized your foul stench when I was brought on board.
— Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope ‧ 1977
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
Leia uses wit to retain agency in a room where she has no practical power. The insult refuses the deference her captors expect.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for Star Wars: Episode IV - A New HopeShow the scene
On the Death Star in A New Hope, Leia insults Tarkin while being held prisoner in the presence of Vader. She turns their effort to intimidate her into an opportunity to mock both men. The exchange precedes Tarkin’s threat against Alderaan.
Sources (3)
- Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope — scene and wording reference 1Selected line and its sceneReference checked
- Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope — scene and wording reference 2Selected line and its sceneReference checked
- Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope — scene and wording reference 3Selected line and its sceneReference checked
Context reviewed
