matril

Even with Leia's desperate warning that it's a trap, Luke goes ahead and walks right into the trap. The truth is, Luke isn't necessarily ignorant of Vader's ploy. His problem isn't ignorance; it's overconfidence and recklessness. Sure, Vader is trying to ensnare him, but Luke can handle it. He's had training now. And he is totally ready, even eager, to face his father's killer and avenge him.

Oops.

Talk about spooky. The chamber, just minutes ago, was busy and noisy and full of people. Now it's apparently empty, with Luke standing there like the victim in a horror movie, knowing something is off but unsure what to do. Then we hear the ominous breathing. Slowly Luke turns. And there Darth Vader stands as if he materialized from nowhere.

So what does Luke do? Boldly walks right up to him and draws his saber. Vader takes his time responding. We've already seen in his confrontation with Obi-Wan from Episode IV that Vader likes to do a little grandstanding, a little monologuing. He does the same here, and even lets Luke make the first attack.

What Luke doesn't realize is that Vader is testing him, probing him, deliberately getting under his skin to see how he responds. He could easily whip out his weapon and slice Luke in half before he had time to put up any defense. But he doesn't want Luke dead; he wants him under the power of the Dark Side. And that's the actual trap Luke is falling prey to.

Luke shows off a little fancy footwork, probably pretty pleased with himself. But Vader is toying with him. He's not using nearly his full strength yet. He's not even using both hands.

Next time, anger leads to hate, hate leads to suffering...