A Thousand Stars: Episode III, Part 36

Lucas has a knack for creating settings that reflect the mood and thematic elements of the scene. This is particularly true for the two grand duels that mark the climax of Episode III.

For Anakin/Vader and Obi-Wan, this is an intensely personal battle that marks the utter disintegration of their friendship. So it takes place amid volcanic destruction that literally devours the landscape around them. With a little extra attention, viewers will note that during the course of their ferocious fighting, the protective force fields are deactivated, leaving the installation vulnerable to stupendous temperatures. Bit by bit, they're left with less and less infrastructure to support them, until they're basically outrunning fire. And is there anything more evocative of the volatile emotions of rage, betrayal and grief as this volatile backdrop to their battle?

Meanwhile, Yoda confronts Palpatine in the Senate building. This is more of a battle of giants (metaphorically) and ideals, and what better place to stage the struggle between the ideals of the Republic and the evil of the Empire than in the Senate chamber itself? Palpatine's selfish manipulations of the mechanisms of democracy are shockingly made physical as he literally flings Senate pods down upon the Jedi Master. Rule of law and the rights of the people mean nothing to Sidious; they never did. He's only ever seen them as a means to an end. To dominate, machinate and destroy.

Next, some more symbolism via fighting...