This episode has a title derived from Greek myth, and a plot from Shakespeares 'The Taming of the Shrew'. The theme was reused in 'The Perfect Mate' TNG when another woman given as a mate was to provide the vehicle for a peace settlement.
One immediate nit is that it concerns the two planets of the Tellun star system, Elas and Troyius, who, although Federation members, have been at war for centuries, long before the formation of the Federation. Obviously, the Federation was less discerning in those days. A clue to the reason may be in the jewel that Petri offers Elaan in a box, and that she later wears in the necklace. Being Dilithium they are rather rare and valuable, so I expect the Federation has double standards too, when it comes to diplomacy, just like present day governments.
The episode marks the first appearance of the Klingon battle cruiser. Frances Nuyen (Elaan) was the young daughter of "Bloody Mary" in the film musical 'South Pacific'.
One immediate nit is that it concerns the two planets of the Tellun star system, Elas and Troyius, who, although Federation members, have been at war for centuries, long before the formation of the Federation. Obviously, the Federation was less discerning in those days. A clue to the reason may be in the jewel that Petri offers Elaan in a box, and that she later wears in the necklace. Being Dilithium they are rather rare and valuable, so I expect the Federation has double standards too, when it comes to diplomacy, just like present day governments.
The episode marks the first appearance of the Klingon battle cruiser. Frances Nuyen (Elaan) was the young daughter of "Bloody Mary" in the film musical 'South Pacific'.