Yesteryear
Spock returns from a time travel observation mission to discover he doesn't exist on this new time plane. Setting things straight means a visit to his own childhood, where a difficult lesson is learned.
Claims that TAS goes above and beyond typical Saturday morning fare always seemed a little far-fetched to us, but this episode, at least, is really something special. Perhaps this is because it contains elements from the classic City on the Edge of Forever, or because it was written by Dorothy Fontana, who penned the equally moving This Side of Paradise. Anyway, we get a cool bird alien, return of the Guardian (though when his speech went from deep and authoritative to "wobbly ghost" is unknown), appearances by Sarek and Amanda (again, love those voices from the original actors), and best of all, young Spock! This really brings to life the back story we've been piecing together throughout TOS, and provides a selhat and the boys' teasing for continuity. The moral is a simple one - accepting death - but it's a hard lesson for any child to learn, especially Vulcan. That Spock is his own cousin is a nod to the grandfather clause, but the time travel elements still get confusing. There are some cute moments as the Andorian first officer appears and then when McCoy finds Spock returned. Had this been standard kids' stuff, the pet would have lived. But as in City, the restoration of time demands a sacrifice, and that choice is also integral to Spock's make-up. It's satisfying to see that not only that times change, but characters evolve.
Spock Saves the Day: Actually, Spock saves himself. From himself.
Oops: Erasing yourself from history is not the smartest move, but it's still not clear how he did it. " Er, I forgot I'm supposed to be in a different time travel adventure posing as my cousin to help my young self pass a test!"
Developments: Young Spock's behaviors are consistent with descriptions in TOS, though these Rites are new. So Vulcan maintains the physical rigors of ancient times to keep them from growing weak in their pursuit of intellect? That concisely and logically explains why brainy, peace-loving Spock is so formidable, and clarifies the ceremonies in Amok Time.
The older Spock seems remarkably accepting of his nature and fights to maintain it. Any resentment towards his parents is long gone, and the necessity of all his experiences realized. He acknowledges his "human blood" and appreciates Amanda's emotional honesty, but sees himself, young and old, as Vulcan. This might influence his decision to pursue the kohlinar in The Motion Picture, his next leap forward. His plea also for Sarek to have understanding for his son seems to take immediately, since young Spock's going off to nerve pinch the bullies is met with no objection! What a father.