Was Count Dooku's Affection for Obi-Wan as Great as His Loyalty to Qui-Gon?

In the complex and morally gray universe of Star Wars, Count Dooku stands as a figure of intrigue, both admired and feared. His relationship with two significant Jedi figures—Obi-Wan Kenobi and his own master, Qui-Gon Jinn—forms an intricate web of loyalty, betrayal, and conflicting emotions. This article delves into the complexities of Dooku's feelings towards Obi-Wan, challenging the perception of his loyalty to his former master and exploring the nuances of their relationship.

Count Dooku's Early Struggles with the Dark Side

Count Dooku's journey as a Jedi began with a fascination for the dark side of the Force. As a young Padawan, Dooku was already grappling with the dichotomy of power and prestige. His early exploits reveal an individual willing to go to great lengths to achieve his desires, even at the cost of his friends and his fellow Jedi.

Exposing Dooku's True Character

One of Dooku's earliest reveals of his darker tendencies occurs in a pivotal moment during his early training. During a dark side experiment, Dooku uses the techniques he's learned to frame a fellow Padawan, steals a Sith holocron, and subsequently leads to the latter's expulsion from the Jedi Order. This act, while demonstrating his skill in the dark side, also reveals his manipulative and regrettable nature.

A Complex Relationship: Dooku and Qui-Gon Jinn

Count Dooku's relationship with his master, Qui-Gon Jinn, is one of the most intriguing aspects of his character. While Dooku often portrays a cold and unfeeling demeanor, the respect and loyalty he presumably felt for Qui-Gon form the backbone of his actions.

Forming a Master in Qui-Gon

Despite his own flaws and the shadow that the dark side casts over him, Dooku manages to train Qui-Gon into a great Jedi. Dooku's actions, though motivated by personal gain and a desire for ascension, reflect a paternal figure in Qui-Gon's growth. This dynamic highlights the mentorship aspect of their relationship, with Dooku serving as a guide to the path of the Jedi, albeit a dark one.

Count Dooku's True Allegiances

However, Dooku's loyalty to Qui-Gon is not without its doubts. His actions, especially his covert training of Anakin Skywalker and his eventual betrayal, raise questions about the depth of his allegiance. While Dooku likely respects and even loves Qui-Gon, his commitment to the Sith Order and his eventual dark transformation suggest a more complex emotional landscape.

The Affection between Count Dooku and Obi-Wan Kenobi

Count Dooku's relationship with Obi-Wan Kenobi is perhaps the most enigmatic of all his relationships. While his feelings for Qui-Gon are rooted in respect and an emotional bond, his relationship with Obi-Wan is marked by a mix of strategic interest and genuine admiration.

Strategic Interest in Obi-Wan

Dooku's choice to send Obi-Wan to Geonosis, rather than Padme or Anakin, demonstrates his strategic interest. However, his preference for Kenobi over Anakin reveals a personal attachment. In one legendary storyline, Dooku actively lobbied the Sith lords—Sidious and Palpatine—to choose Obi-Wan as a new apprentice, a move that underscores his genuine desire for Obi-Wan to be part of his legacy.

Genuine Respect

When it comes to combat, Dooku's duel with Obi-Wan highlights his respect for his opponent. He acknowledges Obi-Wan's skills and respects him as an equal. This contrast to his mocking attitude towards Anakin suggests that Dooku held Obi-Wan in higher esteem, both as a sparring partner and a potential successor.

Legends vs Canon: Dooku's Feelings for Obi-Wan

In the Legends continuation of the Star Wars saga, there is a small but poignant moment where Dooku, revealing his true feelings to the Sith Supreme Emperor, describes Obi-Wan as his "grandson." This statement, though brief, emphasizes the deep connection and deep affection Dooku felt for Obi-Wan, even if it was obscured by the dark path he chose.

In Canon, the portrayal is slightly different. Dooku's relationship with Obi-Wan is complex but not marked by the same level of personal affection. While he does show respect for Obi-Wan as an opponent, it is clear that his relationship is more transactional and strategic than emotional.

In conclusion, while both Legends and Canon present Dooku's feelings towards Obi-Wan differently, it is evident that there is a bond between these two characters. Dooku's strategic interest and genuine respect for Obi-Wan demonstrate a depth of connection that remains a fascinating aspect of the Star Wars universe.