Star Wars Legends: A Comprehensive Guide to the Expanded Universe

Splinter of the Mind's Eye: Star Wars Legends (Star Wars - Legends)

by Alan Dean Foster

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5542 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	306 pages

FREE

In a galaxy far, far away, beyond the confines of the silver screen, lies an expansive universe of captivating tales, thrilling adventures, and beloved characters—Star Wars Legends. Once known as the Expanded Universe, this vast collection of books, comics, video games, and more has enriched the Star Wars saga for decades, weaving an intricate tapestry of storytelling that has captivated millions of fans.

A Brief History of Star Wars Legends

Star Wars Legends traces its origins back to 1978, when the novel Splinter of the Mind's Eye was published as a sequel to the original Star Wars film. This novel marked the beginning of a sprawling universe that would come to encompass countless storylines, introducing new characters, planets, and events that expanded the Star Wars mythos beyond the scope of the original trilogy.

Over the years, Star Wars Legends grew exponentially, encompassing a wide range of genres and storylines. From epic space battles to intimate character-driven stories, from the ancient past to the distant future, Star Wars Legends offered a vast and varied storytelling landscape.

The Rise and Fall of Star Wars Legends

For decades, Star Wars Legends thrived as a vibrant and beloved part of the Star Wars universe. However, in 2014, Disney acquired Lucasfilm and made the controversial decision to declare all Star Wars Legends stories as non-canonical. This move effectively separated the Expanded Universe from the official Star Wars canon, creating a clear distinction between the two.

While many fans were disappointed by this decision, Star Wars Legends remains a beloved part of the Star Wars legacy, offering a vast and rich collection of stories that continue to inspire and entertain.

The Legacy of Star Wars Legends

Despite being declared non-canonical, Star Wars Legends has had a profound impact on the Star Wars universe. Many of the characters, events, and concepts introduced in Legends have been incorporated into the official canon in some form or another, demonstrating the enduring influence of this beloved saga.

For example, the character of Grand Admiral Thrawn, first introduced in the 1991 novel Heir to the Empire, became a fan favorite and has since been brought into the official canon in the animated series Star Wars Rebels and the novel Thrawn.

Key Features of Star Wars Legends

Star Wars Legends is characterized by a number of key features that distinguish it from the official Star Wars canon:

• Expanded timeline: Star Wars Legends spans a vast timeline, extending both before and after the events of the original trilogy. This allows for the exploration of different eras and perspectives, offering a more comprehensive view of the Star Wars universe.
• Wide range of genres: Star Wars Legends stories encompass a wide range of genres, from epic space operas to political thrillers to character-driven dramas. This variety allows for a diverse and engaging storytelling experience.
• New characters: Legends introduced a vast array of beloved characters, such as Mara Jade, Kyle Katarn, and Talon Karrde. These characters have become integral to the Star Wars mythos, adding depth and complexity to the saga.
• Unique storylines: Legends stories often explored different themes and perspectives than the official Star Wars canon, offering fresh and unique takes on the Star Wars universe.

Notable Legends Stories

Star Wars Legends is home to some of the most iconic and beloved stories in the Star Wars universe. Here are a few notable examples:

• Thrawn trilogy (1991-1993): This trilogy by Timothy Zahn introduced the brilliant and ruthless Grand Admiral Thrawn, one of the most popular characters in Star Wars history. The trilogy follows Thrawn's campaign to conquer the New Republic, and is widely regarded as one of the best Star Wars stories ever written.
• X-Wing series (1994-2012): This series by Michael A. Stackpole and Aaron Allston follows the adventures of Rogue Squadron, a group of elite starfighter pilots fighting against the Empire and its remnants. The X-Wing series is known for its thrilling action sequences and well-developed characters.
• Darth Bane trilogy (2006-2008): This trilogy by Drew Karpyshyn explores the origins of the Sith Order and the creation of the Rule of Two. The Darth Bane trilogy offers a dark and gritty look at the history of the Sith, and is considered one of the most significant Legends stories.

Exploring Star Wars Legends Today

While Star Wars Legends stories may no longer be considered canonical, they remain readily available to fans. Many of the novels, comics, and video games are still in print or available digitally. There are also numerous fan websites and online communities dedicated to preserving and discussing Star Wars Legends.

For those interested in delving into the vast and wondrous world of Star Wars Legends, there has never been a better time. With countless stories to explore, beloved characters to meet, and epic adventures to experience, the Star Wars Legends universe offers a lifetime of entertainment and enjoyment.

Star Wars Legends is a vast and captivating universe that has captivated the imagination of millions of fans around the world. From its sprawling timeline to its beloved characters, its epic storylines to its diverse genres, Star Wars Legends offers a rich and rewarding experience that continues to inspire and entertain. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the saga, there's something in Star Wars Legends for everyone. So embark on a journey to a galaxy far, far away, where adventure, intrigue, and the Force await.

Splinter of the Mind's Eye: Star Wars Legends (Star Wars - Legends)

by Alan Dean Foster

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5542 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	306 pages

FREE