In this CLE, we'll be applying the international law of armed conflict (LOAC) to the armed conflict depicted in Star Wars Episode IV. Intentionally or not, the film raises a number of fascinating LOAC issues that international law scholars are jurists grapple with, even today. And in the process, we will cover a number of real-life war crimes cases, from the Nuremburg trials and trial of Adolph Eichmann to the modern-era terrorism cases and drone program.

Some topics for discussion include: Was Leia's detention and/or interrogation unlawful? What is her LOAC status, as a civilian (a diplomat, no less) who actively aided rebel forces? Is the Death Star a lawful weapon system? Were Luke Skywalker's aunt and uncle unlawfully drone striked? Was it a war crime for Luke and Han Solo to open fire on stormtroopers while dressed as storm troopers?