Picard is tortured by a Cardassian interrogator, Gul Madred.
Picard is held in captivity by the Cardassian interrogator Gul Madred, who tries to break him with psychological torture. The Captain refuses to give in, and the drama becomes a battle of wills between the two men. At the same time, Captain Jellico negotiates with the Cardassians to try to win Picard's release.
The episode is a harrowing and powerful drama, with the largely two-person scenes carrying much of the story. It is often listed as one of the best in the entire series. The central idea, of a man who holds on to his convictions in the face of pain, is memorable, and the resolution is moving. It also shows the Cardassians as a serious and brutal power.