The Influence of Isaac Asimov’s Trantor on Coruscant in Star Wars: An Unacknowledged Debt

Much has been said about George Lucas's diverse range of influences in his creation of the Star Wars universe. From mythology, classic films, and literature, Lucas has cited various inspirations. However, one significant influence that has not been publicly acknowledged is Isaac Asimov's work, specifically the planet Trantor from the Foundation series, which shares striking similarities with Coruscant, the central hub of the Star Wars galaxy.

Coruscant, known for its towering skyscrapers and centralized political power, shares many similarities with Trantor, Asimov's capital planet in his Foundation series. Both planets symbolize the pinnacle of technological and political advancement. However, they serve different narrative purposes within their respective storylines. This article explores the reasons behind George Lucas's apparent lack of acknowledgment for Isaac Asimov's influence on Coruscant.

Why Does George Lucas Never Give Credit to Isaac Asimov?

There are several potential reasons why George Lucas has not publicly acknowledged Isaac Asimov's influence on his creation of Coruscant and the Galactic Empire.

Different Inspirations

One plausible explanation is that Lucas drew upon a broader range of influences. These include other science fiction works, mythology, and historical references, which he felt were more relevant to his vision of the Star Wars universe. Lucas's goal was to create a unique and self-contained universe.

Focus on Originality

Another reason might be Lucas's effort to maintain the originality of his work. While there are similarities between Asimov's Trantor and Coruscant, Lucas might have felt that these similarities were coincidental or not substantial enough to warrant direct credit. The creation of a space opera that appeals to a wide audience may have led Lucas to prioritize these other influences over specific literary sources.

Cultural Context

Historically, the Star Wars saga was designed to be a space opera that appealed to a wide audience, incorporating elements from various genres and traditions. This cultural context could explain why Lucas might have chosen not to explicitly acknowledge Asimov's work.

Other Examples of Similar Ideas

It is worth noting that the idea of a city built on top of an older city is not unique to Asimov's Trantor. It appears in other works of literature and media as well.

For example, a comic book titled "Magnus: Robot Fighter" from the 1970s references a city built on top of an older city. The line mentions that "not all the old telephone booth phones had been disconnected," a concept that seems almost anachronistic today. Similarly, the Gerry Anderson TV show "Century 21" featured a tabloid comic newspaper that mentioned not all old telephone exchanges in London had been disconnected, a scene that evokes a sense of continuity and history.

H.G. Wells's Things To Come also features the idea of a city built on top of the ruins of an older city. In the novel, Everytown is built over three times, showcasing a continuous process of redevelopment and cultural evolution.

Furthermore, the concept of temples and cathedrals being built on the ruins of previous ones is a recurring theme in many mythologies and historical accounts. Troy, for instance, has been rebuilt and reconstructed over the centuries, each new iteration adding to the layers of history.

The Complexity of Credit and Inspiration

The conversation about credit and inspiration in creative works can be complex, involving layered influences that are not always explicitly acknowledged. Writers and creators draw from a plethora of sources, and pinpointing the exact origins of a particular idea can be challenging.

Both George Lucas and Isaac Asimov have made significant contributions to the science fiction genre. The influence of one on the other raises questions about the nature of inspiration and the creation of original works.

While it is clear that Coruscant and Trantor share many similarities, the exact extent of Asimov's influence on Lucas's creation remains a matter of speculation. The Star Wars universe, like any other work of literature or media, is a synthesis of countless ideas and influences, making it a complex and multifaceted tapestry.