A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away (1999), we were introduced to Anakin Skywalker, an intelligent, gifted and caring young boy. Ten years later and the cherub has evolved into the archetypal squabbling teenager, full of mixed emotions and arrogance. However, the train tracks of everyday life take a swift turn as Anakin starts down the dark path. Maiming scores of Sandpeople, women and children not withstanding, Anakin develops a taste for anger and the power that invariably comes with it. Under the tutelage of Darth Sidious he will kill Jedi Masters, Knights and unarmed Younglings with no remorse.

Fast-forward 20-odd years and we finally witness Anakin's understanding of the true nature of the Force. He sees the green code of the Matrix and defeats the Emperor, breaking the Sith cycle of tyranny.

It is... too late... for me... son

However, the slate has not been wiped clean. Though the lives of those massacred are but a drop in the ocean compared to those enslaved by the Emperor, Anakin's past crimes remain.

Are we to forgive him on the simple grounds that he became Darth Vader? If so, we must surely consider how much of a role Anakin played in this transformation. His greed, fear and possessive traits ultimately drove his descent into the dark side. Though this journey was formally completed by Sith machinations, Anakin had his own part to play. His lightsaber ultimately cut through the bodies of the good and innocent.

So I ask you: Can we truly forgive Anakin and smile as we see his force ghost emerge on Endor, alongside Obi-Wan and Yoda? Or is his immortality tinged with the blood of those his physical body mercilessly murdered many years before?

edit: Why do I always forget to choose a little category icon? Me stupid.