Understanding Finn's Awareness: The Role of Poe and the Stormtrooper's Conscience

Introduction

In the captivating storytelling of The Force Awakens, the character of Finn serves as a pivotal figure whose journey from a loyal stormtrooper to a principled protagonist is deeply intertwined with the events on Jakku. One aspect that remains a topic of debate is Finn's exact awareness of the events that led to the death of his comrade, Slip, and the involvement of Poe in these events. This article aims to explore and illuminate Finn's state of awareness and the broader implications of his choices.

Finn's Awareness of Poe's Involvement

Finn's conscious awareness of Poe shooting his comrade, Slip, is a complex issue in the narrative of The Force Awakens. While it is suggested that Bjorn, a resistance fighter, was involved in the shooting of Slip, Finn does not seem to remember this event clearly. Additionally, the plasma from Poe's blaster that hangs in the air serves as a poignant symbol of the tragic event. However, it is important to note that Finn was not the only stormtrooper present; he was also aware of the resistance fighters' presence and the broader context of their conflict.

Despite not having a clear recollection of the shooting, Finn must have been aware of the presence of Poe and other resistance fighters. The staging of the battle, with the plasma from Poe's blaster hovering in the air, serves as a striking visual that could not be overlooked. Given Finn's training and the overall hostile environment, it is plausible that he was aware that Poe was part of a resistance force, even if the specific details are hazy.

Finn's Motivations: Beyond Slips Death

While Slips death was undoubtedly a tragic event that affected Finn deeply, it was not the sole factor that influenced his decision to defect from the First Order. The broader context of senseless loss of life and the dehumanizing nature of the war machine played a significant role in shaping Finns decision. Despite performing admirably in training scenarios where he was pitted against simulated combatants, Finn was not suited for the brutal reality of warfare.

The decision to kill the villagers in cold blood, as depicted in the film, was a critical turning point. While Finn excelled in training, where the opponents were artificial and his compassion was noted, his inability to comply with the First Order's directive to engage in such a callous act was a defining moment. Finns decision to defect was driven by a moral compass that could not reconcile with the scale and nature of the First Order's actions. This act of defiance was a personal resurgence of his inherent humanity and conscience.

Beyond the Immediate Events: Finn's Journey and the Role of Seva Conditioning

Unlike other stormtroopers who were likely under Seva conditioning, which aimed to suppress individuality and promote mindless obedience, Finn's behavior suggests a degree of autonomy and individuality. Captain Phasma's decision to place Finn in an uncompleted Seva process further highlights his unique position. Finn's actions, such as saving Poe, demonstrate a refusal to conform to the rigid conditioning that aimed to turn him into a mere drone.

The suggestion that Finns stormtrooper comrades might not have easily distinguished him as a comrade further reinforces the idea that he was seen as an outlier. While it is not explicitly stated, the fact that Finn's actions were atypical and his instinct to act with compassion aligns with his growing awareness of the inhumane actions of the First Order.

In conclusion, while Finn's exact recollection of the events involving Poe and the death of Slip may be vague, the broader narrative and his subsequent actions suggest a deep awareness of his surroundings and a strong moral compass that influences his choices. His decision to defect is a testament to the complex interplay of his conscience and the harsh realities of the war he was forced to engage in, ultimately leading to his transformation into a hero of the Resistance.