A brilliant political mind. Palpatine doesn't miss a single
opportunity to achieve his goals. He makes every move with careful
planning much like a chess master.
Although his goals seem obvious, that he must help the people of Naboo, some question is present as to his role. Is he Darth Sidious, Lord of the Sith and master of the dark side of the force? Or is George Lucas just playing games with us making us believe the obvious and therefore overlooking a hidden truth?