One of the main reasons for the continuing success of
Star Trek: The Next Generation sits in the Captain's chair of the
U.S.S. Enterprise-D.
Captain Jean-Luc Picard was a departure from his Star Trek predecessor, the maverick
James T. Kirk, but fans didn't take long to warm up him. Throughout the show's run, Picard represented humanity with articulate elegance, all the while growing from his trials and hardships. Below are a selection of episodes which highlight his (inter)stellar career:
The Measure of a Man Picard's defense of
Data's rights transcends simple science-fiction or courtroom drama and lands in the realm of philosophy, forcing a redefinition or expansion of the concept of human rights when it comes to artificial sentience.
Best of Both Worlds, Part I
Confronted with the greatest threat yet both to himself and to the Federation, this episode showed us a sobering vision- a completely helpless Picard, at the mercy of the Borg, proving that even the greatest of heroes can be rendered utterly helpless.
Best of Both Worlds, Part II
Picard's role in the action may be somewhat passive, but his inspiration and leadership prior to this episode pay off, with the crew discovering the key to defeating a seemingly invincible foe by sticking to the principles their Captain championed and lived by.
Family
This episode reminds us that behind every great leader, no matter how intimidating or commanding, is a family that sees him for what he is- a mere mortal with grudges and insecurities with deep, years-old roots.
The First Duty
Although at face value the episode showcases Wesley Crusher, Picard's speech about the fundamental core values of any Starfleet officer reveal one of the driving forces that makes Picard tick - a duty to the truth above all else.
I, Borg
Picard's desire to eradicate the Borg is understandable but the complexities of a grey universe in this episode elude clear-cut, black-and-white thinking. This episode shows us a leader who isn't so fueled by revenge or fear that he can't rethink his position and refuse to inflict destruction on innocents for a potentially greater outcome, rendering the outcome meaningless if his principles are compromised.
The Inner Light
One of the most moving episodes of Star Trek ever, Picard receives the torturous gift of a lifetime of memories from a long-dead race, allowing him to experience having- and losing- a family, gaining years of wisdom and insight in the blink of an eye.
Chain of Command, Part II
The crucible of torture reveals the Picard beneath the trappings of his office and his military manner. By sheer strength of will, he maintains his sanity, his dignity, and his integrity, despite horrendous torture at the hands of a Cardassian Gul.
Tapestry
A look at the youthful Picard, surprisingly brash and arrogant. While we've seen time and again how Picard approaches situations carefully and mindful of the consequences, this episode shows us how he learned such wisdom: the hard way.
All Good Things, Part II
While showing the Enterprise Captain at three different stages of his life, this episode shows us a Picard later in life, not in complete control of his faculties. The elder Picard reminds us we'll all decline in time, and while they might not always be graceful or succinct, respecting our elders might just save the universe.
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