Any discussion of The Last Command and the related books can draw on a large audience of Star Wars enthusiasts.

Some may be interested mostly in spectacular space battles and the special effects which create them. Some may be most fascinated by the characters and the alien worlds, and some may be drawn to the philosophical and metaphysical side of Star Wars. Leaders should be prepared to include all these aspects, at least briefly. Members of each such interest cluster are likely to contribute insights and knowledge aside from the usual literary comments.

1. Grand Admiral Thrawn is a better strategist and leader than any of the New Republic's generals. If circumstances had been different, could he have worked successfully for the other side? Or does his combination of talents require an authoritarian setting?

2. He is finally defeated, but largely because the smugglers misread the Republic's planted...