In "Kassa" (Andor 1.1), the obsessive deputy inspector Syril Karn is introduced investigating Cassian Andor's murder of two Preox-Morlana security personnel.
The name "Syril" suggests a Star Wars variant of the English name "Cyril," meaning "lordly, masterful," ultimately derived from the Greek kýrios ("lord"). Syril's name fits with his pretensions of grandeur. He thinks of himself as masterful and lordly: he believes he deserves to be in a position of authority, and that everyone else should fall in line with his orderly vision of how the world around him is supposed to be. In reality, the meaning of Syril's name ironically underlines his lack of leadership qualities, and the tragic fact that he is not his own master but a slave who is duped and used by the Empire.
"Karn" suggests the Latin "carn," meaning "meat" (as in "carnivore," a meat-eater) or "flesh" (as in "carnal," relating to physical needs and activities). Syril's surname, then, suggests his lack of spirituality and focus on the material world – traits associated with the dark side throughout Star Wars. Indeed, the name "Syril Karn" – meaning something like "master of flesh" – would be a fitting title for a Sith Lord, which is bitterly ironic given that, in Syril's mind, he is a force for good in the galaxy.
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Characters: Syril Karn
Shows: Andor
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Concepts: materialism / names / slavery
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