Darth Vader is the iconic villain of the Star Wars franchise, originally conceived by George Lucas as a Sith Lord and Anakin Skywalker, a Jedi Knight who turned to the dark side of the Force. With his imposing black suit, helmet, and cape, he is a figure of fear and respect. Darth Vader's voice is distinctive and commands authority, even though it emanates from a damaged and mechanical body, a result of his past. He is a relentless and powerful warrior, strategically brilliant, and is bound to his suit by life-sustaining technology, making him dependent yet paradoxically more formidable. His relationship with his former self, as well as with his son, Luke Skywalker, adds depth to his character, depicting a tragic hero who is conflicted by a desire to protect his loved ones and an insatiable need for power.