Why did Unkar Plutt offer so many portions for the droid BB-8?
When we first meet Rey in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, she's a scavenger eking out a meager existence in the harsh desert world of Jakku. Survival for her is day-to-day, scraping together a living by exchanging scavenged materials from wrecked starships for food portions. It's a life, but it's not much of one. Yet, as the story unfolds, we see a depth to Rey's character that hints at her destiny as a new hero in the Star Wars saga. A critical moment of this revelation comes in her encounter with BB-8 and her decision to turn down Unkar Plutt's offer.
Unkar Plutt, a character notorious for his underhanded tactics and exploitation of the impoverished scavengers, is the one who controls the exchange of food for salvage. Rey's interaction with him offers insight into the value system on Jakku and her place in it. When Plutt offers a whopping sixty portions for BB-8, it's a staggering amount, the likes of which Rey likely hasn't seen before.
To understand why Plutt makes such an offer, it's crucial to consider the broader context. BB-8 isn't just any droid; he holds a map leading to Luke Skywalker, the last Jedi. Plutt may not know the full importance of the droid, but he knows that rare and unique droids can fetch a significant price in the galaxy, particularly from collectors or those interested in unique technology. This droid, however, is being sought by powerful forces, including the First Order and the Resistance, raising its value immensely.
Yet, Rey rejects this offer. But why? After all, this is a chance for her to live without the need to scavenge for a considerable time. Rey's decision here is pivotal and speaks volumes about her character. Despite her harsh life, she chooses not to sell BB-8, demonstrating her kindness, empathy, and moral compass. Rey recognizes BB-8 as more than just a piece of technology; she sees him as a sentient being in need of help.
Moreover, her choice reveals a sense of integrity and highlights her unyielding spirit. It indicates that Rey values companionship, loyalty, and doing what's right over material gain. It's a decision driven by compassion and empathy, and not by survival instincts alone. This is what sets her apart and paves her path towards becoming a central figure in the Resistance against the First Order.
Also, in the larger narrative of Star Wars, Rey's choice echoes previous decisions made by other characters. Much like Luke Skywalker decided to leave his home on Tatooine and join Obi-Wan Kenobi on a dangerous mission after receiving a message from a droid, Rey also chooses a path that would eventually lead her to her destiny. Her decision to protect BB-8 sets in motion a series of events that transform her from a lone scavenger to a key player in the galaxy's fight for freedom.
Thus, Rey's refusal to sell BB-8 to Unkar Plutt is a defining moment in her character development in The Force Awakens. It underscores her deep-rooted empathy, a trait that is fundamental to her journey as a character and her future as a Jedi. In making this selfless decision, Rey embraces a destiny that lifts her from the desert plains of Jakku and places her at the center of the galactic conflict between the dark and the light.
