| "The Deliverer" written by Steven Sears, and
"Crusader" written by R.J. Stewart were two episodes
which spawned a great deal of discussion among fans. What did
these episodes have in common? The introduction of two characters
who would attract Gabrielle to their way of life, and thus set in
motion a series of events which would become the catalyst for
guilt; self-doubt and indecision. In "The Deliverer,"
Mr. Sears explains Gabrielle's connection to Khrafstar:
"Khrafstar, in her eyes, expressed and lived these ideals;
had actually experienced a transformation in his life. She looked
at him and said this is what everybody should be." (The
Chakram #2)
In "Crusader," Mr. Stewart talks about the creation
of Najara:
"It became apparent to me that I was talking about a
Zealot. Then I thought of Joan of Arc and then I knew who the
character was. The story played out pretty organically then. Of
course, Gabrielle would be attracted to this character....."
(Transcript of Hollywood Spotlight Chat)
It is interesting that both writers chose characters who, by
claiming they had found the light, used a false/positive argument
to convince Gabrielle to follow them. While Khrafstar was the
source of evil; Najara was bound by demonic forces which led her
to commit evil acts. This, while Gabrielle was struggling on a
daily basis, to keep Xena from returning to that part of her life
that was evil.
Given the fact that Xena has had to wage a constant battle
within herself to fight her dark side; and given the fact that
Gabrielle has become the light through which Xena can pursue a
path of forgiveness; I pose the following questions:
How has the two episodes mentioned thwarted that effort? Has
the light that Gabrielle seeks; and that light which Xena has used
as a personal compass, been dimmed and irreparably damaged? -
Doctor Brette, Dean of Curriculum
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