Synopsis: After discovering an attack on a science station Captain Picard orders the Enterprise to try to mediate negotiations between clans that have been feuding for generations on a planet.
In “The Vengeance Factor” there is an interesting mythological custom that is on display, yet never mentioned in every scene in which parties are brought together in order to speak about peace. That custom is to invite Hestia into the space.
Hestia, a goddess from ancient Greek mythology, is never seen in statuary form, as are the other gods and goddesses. Instead, she is evoked in the efforts to make an area inviting to all who enter. In ancient times, the coming around the center of a location, or around a hearth. Tending to the comfort of those in attendance is also Hestian.
In the episode there are three scenes in particular where we see an homage to Hestia. The first, where Marouk, the Sovereign of Acamar III is brought aboard the Enterprise, and then seated at a table with the officers of the Enterprise, and then escorted to quarters for her journey to negotiate with the Gatherers. The second is on the planet Gamma Hromi II, where Captain Jean-Luc Picard, Marouk, and Brull, a leader of the Gatherers sit at a table among torches, separate from the rest of those in the area. The third is when Picard, Marouk, and Brull go to speak with the head of the Gatherers, again, they sit at a table across from each other and refreshments are offered. Hestia is invoked, even though no one makes any mention of it. She is just there in the customs of making those who have gathered, comfortable.
Original post created 2 August 2021
mydailysoultrek 