Fabula
Object
Object

Large Cross Symbol

A prominent large cross symbol dominates the scene during Q's masquerade on the Enterprise bridge, serving as a potent visual emblem amid Riker's trial of omnipotence. This imposing, symbolic prop underscores the themes of temptation, power, and moral testing as Riker grapples with godlike abilities, while Q taunts him in the guise of a friar. The cross’s stark presence contrasts the cosmic powers at play, anchoring the scene with a religiously charged motif that evokes sacrifice, humility, and the burden of absolute authority.
6 appearances

Purpose

Functions as a symbolic prop during Q's masquerade, visually framing the moral and spiritual trial unfolding on the Enterprise bridge.

Significance

Represents the weight of temptation and the moral gravity of wielding godlike power, emphasizing themes of sacrifice, humility, and the human soul's resilience in the face of divine seduction.

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

6 moments
S1E11 · Hide and Q
Riker’s Trial: The Burden and Humility of Omnipotence

The large cross symbol is prominently displayed by Q in his friar disguise, amplifying the thematic tension of temptation, sacrifice, and moral trial as Q mocks the crew’s earnestness and the sanctity of their struggle.

Before: Held by Q as a symbolic prop during his friar masquerade on the bridge.
After: Withdrawn and absent following Q’s departure from the bridge.
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S1E11 · Hide and Q
Riker’s Omnipotent Trial: Gifts, Temptation, and the Human Soul

The large cross symbol is revealed as part of Q’s friar disguise, serving as a potent visual emblem of mock religious authority used to taunt and manipulate Picard and Riker during the trial, underscoring themes of temptation, power, and moral testing.

Before: Contained within Q's robes as a concealed symbol of his masquerade.
After: Displayed openly on the bridge as Q confronts Picard and Riker, then removed as Q is expelled.
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S1E11 · Hide and Q
Riker’s Godlike Gifts Expose Crew’s True Selves and Teach Humility

The Large Cross Symbol is prominently displayed during Q's masquerade in the Franciscan robes, serving as a religious and moral symbol contrasting with the temptation and godlike power themes. It visually anchors the scene’s spiritual and ethical tensions.

Before: Concealed within Q's robes before revealed.
After: Displayed openly as a symbol of the ongoing moral trial.
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S1E11 · Hide and Q
Riker’s Humbling Trial of Power and Humanity

The large cross symbol is displayed prominently by Q in his Franciscan friar guise, serving as a visual metaphor for the false sanctity and theatrical manipulation employed to tempt Riker and confuse the crew.

Before: Concealed within Q’s robes.
After: Withdrawn and abandoned as Q’s masquerade collapses and the cosmic test ends.
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S1E11 · Hide and Q
Picard Ends Q’s Cosmic Gambit, Restores Humanity's Soul

The large cross symbol is prominently displayed by Q in his friar persona, visually underscoring themes of temptation, spiritual trial, and moral testing as Q mocks human faith and humility.

Before: Carried by Q as part of friar’s costume.
After: Retained by Q until his departure.
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S1E11 · Hide and Q
Riker's Trial of Power and the Restoration of Humanity

The large cross symbol is wielded by Q in his Franciscan friar disguise as a theatrical prop, symbolizing false humility and religious mockery during the confrontation and trial of Riker’s powers.

Before: Concealed within Q’s robes, carried as a symbolic prop.
After: Withdrawn and no longer prominently displayed after Q’s defeat and departure.
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