Are Star Wars Books Canon?
The Star Wars universe has captivated audiences for decades, with its rich storytelling and expansive lore. One of the most frequently asked questions among fans is whether the books and novels that expand upon the franchise are considered “canon.” In this article, we will explore the concept of Star Wars canon and discuss the various opinions surrounding the status of these books.
What is Canon?
In the context of Star Wars, “canon” refers to the official stories and continuity that are recognized by Lucasfilm, the company that owns the rights to the franchise. Canon material is considered to be part of the “official” Star Wars universe, and it has a direct impact on the continuity and lore of the series. This includes the six main Star Wars movies, the animated series, and other media produced by Lucasfilm.
Star Wars Books and Canon
The Star Wars Expanded Universe (EU) consists of numerous novels, comic books, and video games that were published before Disney acquired Lucasfilm in 2012. Many of these stories were considered part of the Star Wars canon and were integrated into the official timeline. However, after Disney took over, they announced that the EU would no longer be considered canon.
The New Canon
In 2014, Disney and Lucasfilm introduced a new era of Star Wars storytelling, which included the release of new movies, television shows, and books. This new content, known as the “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” era, marked the beginning of a new canon. The new canon consists of the movies, television shows, and certain books, comics, and video games that have been officially endorsed by Lucasfilm.
Are Star Wars Books Canon?
The answer to whether Star Wars books are canon depends on the era of the books in question. The pre-Disney EU books are no longer considered canon, while the new books and novels that have been released since the “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” era are part of the new canon. This has caused some controversy among fans, as many have grown attached to the stories and characters from the old EU.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the status of Star Wars books as canon has evolved over time. While the pre-Disney EU books are no longer considered part of the official Star Wars universe, the new books and novels that have been released since 2014 are now recognized as canon. This change has sparked debate among fans, but it ultimately reflects the evolving nature of the Star Wars franchise and its storytelling.
