“Past Prologue” is a surprisingly effective effort from Deep Space Nine. Unlike its uneven and awkward predecessor, the pilot episode titled “The Emissary,” this episode features a complex, yet tightly focused narrative that explores the shifting loyalties that are on full display in times of great upheaval. Indeed, this episode does a very good job of looking at the differences between ideology and pragmatism – between old allegiances and new comrades. Most commendable, however, is how comfortable most of the primary characters seem to be in their new roles. The result is an episode that feels as though it would belong in the midst of a series, rather than at the very beginning. As a matter of fact, only the heightened melodrama between main characters serves as a criticism. But to be fair, the melodrama does serve an overall purpose to the episode.

The premise begins with a Bajoran terrorist, Tahna, on the run from a Cardassian warship, who seeks asylum on board Deep Space Nine. Of course, despite his declarations to the contrary, Tahna is deep in the middle of a plot to fight not only the Cardassians, but also the Federation, as well. It’s no surprise that the loyalties of Major Kira become the primary focus of this episode – which manages to pull in a Cardassian double-agent named Garak, and even the Duras sisters. The complex plot unfolds surprisingly well, managing to allow such far-flung themes as Dr. Bashir’s naïve lust for intrigue, and Chief O’Brien’s lingering hatred of the Cardassians.

Of course, the primary focus of this episode is Major Kira. And she handles her role quite well – outside of an exceedingly annoying shouting match with Sisko. It is through her eyes that the primary conflicts of this episode unfold. Tahna, a former compatriot, pushes Kira to support his mysterious plans. His efforts force Kira to ultimately make a decision: to stand with her former comrades, or her new Federation allies. Her inner turmoil is summarized in the episode’s most important line of dialogue: “It was so much easier when I knew who the enemy was.” Kira was used to being so focused on the Cardassians that her choices were clear and direct. But now, in this post-war world which she is helping to build, the shifting allegiances make the choices all the more difficult.

In this sense, I have to express a bit of admiration at the audacity of the DS9 concept. Most stories focus on the war for independence (see: Star Wars). But very few concern themselves with the immensely complex moral and ethical and political conflicts which necessarily follow such victories. That DS9 would seek to confront these realities head-on is either an act of hubris or genius. And for this episode, at least, it seems closer to the latter.

Along the way, there are a number of memorable scenes. Bashir’s interactions with Garak are both intriguing and amusing. Kira’s interactions with Tahna are exceptionally wrenching, especially in terms of her loyalties. And the Duras sisters are certainly good for a memorable line or two. But it is Kira’s conversation with Odo that really defines the episode and allows its ultimate conclusion to play out with a strong measure of plausibility.

With “Post Prologue” I was debating between a B+ and an A-. But considering the relative skill with which this episode was told, and the likelihood that a number of developments here will be revisited later in the series, I chose to give it the benefit of the doubt. Put simply, this episode is impressive. And its ultimate value will depend greatly on how much of its explorations are further expanded as the series unfolds.

Filed under: Deep Space Nine