‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’ Retro Recap – ‘Ménage à Troi’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

One thing that we can all agree upon, is that the Star Trek Universe offers up some of the finest world-building out there. Because this storied franchise has managed to assemble an actual history of the future, one complete with critical dates that a united mankind of tomorrow celebrates on a consistent basis in a manner that feels organic and natural, and that is no easy task. But this show pulls it off no problem and that really has allowed for quite the rich and engrossing viewing experience when all is said and done. But while it is wonderful to know exactly when Jonathan Archer will go from captain of the Enterprise to the President of the United Federation of Planets, there is one slight flaw when it comes to the STU’s overall world-building.

In that, it tends to focus on the more grandiose moments over anything else. Which has allowed for the social structure of the Federation and its many citizens to be ignored. Something that the saga can get away with by just pointing out that the UFP is a utopia of sorts where the betterment of all species takes precedence. But even then, sometimes we are just plain curious as to how people live in the 23rd Century and beyond, and how the various societies of the universe look and are structured and thanks to Star Trek: The Next Generation, we received those little tidbits of insight from time to time. For ‘The Price’ gave us a fascinating look at the economics of the future and that particular tale’s groundbreaking thoughts on that, opened the door for the next episode in this storied franchise… to finally give us an idea of what everyday life is actually like in the 24th Century.

A feat that ‘Ménage à Troi’ accomplished by slowing things down aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise by having the crew swing by Betazed for some trade agreements and since it was the 1701-D handling these affairs, the iconic Lwaxana Troi was able to come aboard and spend a little time with her daughter and their interactions informed us, that family life hasn’t changed all that much in 2366. Because daughters still quibble over rightful independence from their mothers and they in turn, cannot let go of their babies. Plus, we also came to learn that change is still something that takes people off guard in the future since Wesley was a bit terrified of making his way toward Starfleet Academy, since it likely meant he would be away from his friends and family for a long time, since Starfleet sends you where it needs to. 

But while all of that was fascinating to learn in its own right, what this episode truly hammers home for all of us, is how much people care about one another in the 24th Century. Because Wesley had no problem with tossing his chance at the Academy aside, in order to help Captain Picard and the crew find Deanna and Will and Lwaxana, after they were kidnapped by a smitten Ferengi Daimon. And for that matter, Jean-Luc was even willing to sacrifice his sanity by offering up an over-the-top romantic performance to get the Daimon to release her, which led to the biggest laughs of this particular tale. Simply because Jean-Luc's performance was as hammy as it gets, and the fact that Lwaxana bought it, hook, line and sinker only adds to the wonder and the hilarity of this supremely comical moment.

In the end however, this really was quite the delightful tale for certain. Since it once again allowed for the cast to let loose and have a little fun for a change, and it really did do a phenomenal job of showing us how wonderful life is in this fictional future. Because all the conflict and worries present in this story, were resolved promptly and in a hopeful manner. For Lwaxana respected her daughter in the end and Wesley didn’t have time to pout, or get a lecture about duty, since he was promoted to a field ensign and really, this was just a wonderful change of pace episode. One that lifts your spirits up and gives you something to smile about for an hour and it’s a wonderful thing that we are getting that right now. For the Borg are coming… and their arrival will offer up some downright terrifying moments. Until next time.

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