Understanding the Timeline of Maul – Shadow Lord
Star Wars: Maul — Shadow Lord drops fans into the complex narrative of one of the franchise’s most formidable foes. As a character who has cheated death, the return of Maul signals a fresh opportunity to explore an underrepresented chapter in Star Wars lore.
Set in 18 BBY, just a year after Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, the show immerses viewers in the early days of the Galactic Empire. This timeframe, often overlooked, presents a rich backdrop for Maul's attempts to reclaim his status in the criminal underworld. Following his rule over Mandalore, which ended due to the actions of Ahsoka Tano and Bo-Katan Kryze, Maul's journey now unfolds against the oppressive regime of the Empire.
Fans looking to fully appreciate Maul — Shadow Lord should consider revisiting Season 7 of The Clone Wars, as it ties intricately with the events leading up to this new series. This season features crucial connections to Revenge of the Sith and provides a deeper understanding of Maul's character development.
Connections to Other Series
The show explores a unique narrative that highlights the Empire's early growth from a distance. The only other series that ventures into this timeline is The Bad Batch, which begins immediately after Order 66. However, Maul's story likely occurs slightly later, filling in gaps left by previous shows.
Tales of the Jedi, particularly its final episode titled Resolve, serves as a significant lead into Maul’s storyline. This episode chronicles Ahsoka's journey post-Siege of Mandalore and her brief encounter with Maul, linking their fates in compelling ways.