Ep 8. Knights of the Scimitar

November 14th, 1986. The eighth episode of Cheers' fifth season, titled "Knights of the Scimitar," follows the employees and regular patrons of the titular bar as they prepare for a special surprise party for the birthday of beloved postman and former baseball player, Cliff Clavin.

As the party preparations ensue, members of a local chapter of the "Knights of the Scimitar," a fraternity dedicated to the preservation of medieval history and warfare, arrive at the bar. Their presence in Cheers quickly leads to friction between the group and the regulars, especially when it is revealed that a former rival of Sam Malone's from his days as a pitcher in the minor leagues is among the "Knights."

Meanwhile, newcomer to the bar Dr. Frasier Crane (Kelsey Grammer) attempts to meet women using various techniques. This subplot adds a much-needed touch of humor to counter the tension between the "Knights" and the Cheers crew.

As the night goes on, misunderstandings and secret motives are revealed, and the "Knights of the Scimitar" prove to be more than just a historical reenactment group. The episode manages to balance comedic moments with the more dramatic elements, and the culmination of the plot is satisfying in both regards.

"Knights of the Scimitar" is a strong entry in the fifth season of Cheers, providing fans of the show with both character-driven humor and compelling storytelling. The guest characters are well-realized, and their interactions with the core cast members give the episode a well-rounded feel. While it may not be the most memorable episode of Cheers, "Knights of the Scimitar" is certainly a worthwhile viewing experience for fans of the show.