Star Wars: 9 Things All Original And Prequel Trilogy Fans Agree On

The Jedi represent a religion of Force-sensitive beings found in both trilogies. In the original trilogy, we equate three characters – Obi-wan, Luke, and Yoda – in a focused formula for understanding the Force. Through these characters, we but scratch the surface of an ancient cult. In the prequels, we get to watch them function as teachers, philosophers, scientists, diplomats, and warriors. It’s very fulfilling to experience the Jedi on a much larger scale, especially as peacemakers during war.

We also see the established, imperfect order to which Anakin belonged, providing context to his tragic fall to the dark side. The Jedi Council was a major player in politics and war and thus their existence fell short of the perfection sought by Luke in the original trilogy. Where we once thought becoming a Jedi was to become flawless in the light side's teachings (as it was implied in the original trilogy), the Jedi became much more interesting when one learned a Jedi could be imperfect, which is an essential characteristic to explain Anakin Skywalker. 

Because depth in general is a major argument made against the prequel movies, the fact the Jedi at one time were political, capable of being duped, and in some cases arrogant serve to validate depth for a portion of the prequels’ plot.

The lessons taught by the Jedi deal with selflessness and sacrifice, and most fans cannot avoid applying this in their own lives. There aren't many movies where that can be said, and both trilogies are responsible for teaching valuable, lifelong lessons.