Why Lieutenant Saavik is Called Mr. Saavik in Star Trek: Wrath of Khan

In Star Trek: Wrath of Khan, Lieutenant Saavik, a pivotal character played by Kirstie Alley, is consistently referred to as 'Mr. Saavik' despite appearing as a female in the film. This article delves into the reasons behind this unusual naming convention, exploring Vulcan naming conventions, character development, script and production choices, and the historical context of naval protocol.

Vulcan Naming Conventions

It's important to note that in Vulcan culture, names do not necessarily follow the same gendered conventions as in human cultures. Names are often neutral and can be applied to both males and females. This is not just a case of the film's creators intentionally choosing to address Saavik as 'Mr.' for dramatic effect, but rather a reflection of Vulcan naming conventions.

Character Development

Saavik is portrayed as a half-Vulcan, half-human character. This dual heritage is a key part of her development as a character. Given her background, it's possible that her cultural upbringing might have influenced the way she was addressed in the Star Trek universe. The filmmakers might have wanted to emphasize her Vulcan heritage and the associated cultural norms, which could include traditionally referencing her with a title that reflects her Vulcan identity.

Script and Production Choices

The use of 'Mr.' instead of 'Ms.' is also a product of script and production choices. On the Star Trek set, Wrath of Khan was shooting well over 30 years ago, and at that time, it was not uncommon for crew members, including those in the Starfleet Academy, to be referred to by their professional titles and a generic form of address like 'Mr.' or 'Mister'.

It's worth noting that this practice was not unique to Saavik. Admiral or Captain characters were sometimes addressed formally as well, with 'Sir' or 'Mister' being the default form of address for a subordinate officer, which is what Saavik was. For example, in the United States Navy, 'Mister' (often shortened to 'Mr.') is a term of familiarity for commissioned officers, typically for junior officers like ensigns and lieutenants. In the British Navy, officers (both male and female) can be referred to as 'Mr.' as well. In Starfleet, this tradition has been carried forward and expanded to include any officer subordinate in rank, even academy cadets like Saavik.

Protocol and Continuity

But is this a protocol in Starfleet? It's commonly known that some Starfleet officers, especially female ones, preferred to be addressed by their rank. For instance, Captain Janeway specified her preference in Star Trek: Voyager, stating that 'Mama' or her rank were suitable when first meeting someone. However, in the early days of Star Trek, male-centric language and protocol were still the norm, and 'Mister' was the generic term for all officers regardless of gender.

Given that Wrath of Khan was released in 1982, it's more likely that the default form of address for a junior officer, regardless of gender, was 'Mr.' and not 'Ma’am'—this being one of the more rare cases of actual continuity in the series.

Historical Context of Naval Protocol

The term 'Mister' has a long history in naval culture. It originated as a term of address for junior commissioned officers but has evolved to also include cadets and lower-ranked officers, including both genders. In the United States Navy, for example, it is common to hear 'Mr.' as a default form of address when referring to a junior officer, especially in the early stages of their career.

While 'Sir' is typically reserved for higher-ranking officers, in many instances, especially in the past, 'Mister' was the default term of address for all commissioned officers, regardless of gender. In the context of Star Trek: Wrath of Khan, it's likely that this was the standard protocol for addressing officers in Starfleet, particularly those like Saavik who were in learning phases but did not yet hold a senior rank.

Additionally, it's noted that one comic from the Star Trek universe stated that all Vulcans are referred to as 'Mister' regardless of gender, which adds another layer to the complexity of naming conventions within the Starfleet universe.

In conclusion, while the practice of referring to Lieutenant Saavik as 'Mr. Saavik' in Star Trek: Wrath of Khan may seem unusual today, it reflects a blend of Vulcan naming conventions, script and production choices, and historical naval protocol from the era when the film was set and produced.

Keywords

Star Trek Vulcan culture Starfleet protocol