Background of the Serial
Creation and Production
"The Evil of the Daleks" was written by David Whitaker, who was instrumental in developing the Doctor Who mythos during its early years. This serial marks the final appearance of the Second Doctor, portrayed by Patrick Troughton, alongside Frazer Hines as Jamie. The production was notable for its ambitious scope, with elaborate sets and complex storytelling that pushed the boundaries of special effects for television in the 1960s.
Context in the Series
At the time of its airing, Doctor Who was already an established phenomenon in British pop culture. The Daleks, created by writer Terry Nation, were introduced in the first season and quickly became one of the show's most iconic villains. The return of the Daleks in this serial was highly anticipated, and it sought to delve deeper into their backstory and motivations.
Plot Summary
Episode Breakdown
"The Evil of the Daleks" consists of six episodes, each contributing to the overarching narrative:
1. Episode 1: "The Evil of the Daleks"
- The Doctor and Jamie arrive in Victorian England and encounter the eccentric inventor, Theodore Maxtible, who is working on experiments involving the Daleks.
2. Episode 2: "The Abominable Snowmen"
- The Doctor learns that the Daleks are planning to use humans as part of their experiments to understand and harness the concept of "human emotion."
3. Episode 3: "The Daleks' Master Plan"
- The Doctor is captured by the Daleks, who want to learn about the human race's capacity for evil, leading to a series of moral dilemmas.
4. Episode 4: "The Human Factor"
- The Doctor and Jamie encounter a group of humans manipulated by the Daleks, showcasing the sinister influence the Daleks have on humanity.
5. Episode 5: "The Power of the Daleks"
- Tensions rise as the Doctor risks everything to thwart the Daleks' plans, ultimately leading to a confrontation between good and evil.
6. Episode 6: "The Final Confrontation"
- The story culminates in an epic showdown where the Doctor must confront the consequences of his actions, leading to a profound revelation about the Daleks.
Themes and Analysis
The Nature of Evil
One of the central themes of "The Evil of the Daleks" is the exploration of evil as a concept. The Daleks, often seen as embodiments of pure malice, are portrayed in a more complex light. The story raises questions about whether evil is inherent or learned, particularly through the character of the Doctor, who grapples with the morality of his decisions.
Human Emotion
The Daleks’ desire to understand human emotion introduces a fascinating dynamic. They aim to harness what makes humans capable of both love and hate, illustrating the interplay between these emotions. This exploration of the duality of human nature is a recurring theme throughout Doctor Who, and "The Evil of the Daleks" exemplifies this narrative thread.
The Doctor as a Moral Figure
The Second Doctor serves as a moral compass throughout the serial. His efforts to thwart the Daleks are not just about stopping their plans but also about understanding the implications of their actions. The Doctor's character embodies compassion, intelligence, and a commitment to challenging evil, making him an enduring symbol of hope.
Character Development
The Doctor
Patrick Troughton's portrayal of the Second Doctor is a blend of whimsy and seriousness. His performance in "The Evil of the Daleks" showcases his ability to navigate complex emotional landscapes. The Doctor's interactions with Jamie and the Daleks reveal layers of his character, emphasizing his role as a protector of humanity.
Jamie McCrimmon
Jamie, played by Frazer Hines, provides a strong counterpoint to the Doctor. His loyalty and bravery complement the Doctor's intellect. Throughout the serial, Jamie's character evolves as he confronts the realities of the Daleks and the moral dilemmas presented by their experiments.
The Daleks
The Daleks are not just villains in this story; they are depicted as entities striving for understanding. Their desire to learn about evil forces them into a philosophical battle with the Doctor. This complexity adds depth to their characterization, making them more than just one-dimensional antagonists.
Cultural Impact
Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "The Evil of the Daleks" received mixed reviews, with some praising its ambitious narrative and others critiquing its pacing. However, over the years, it has gained recognition as a significant entry in the Doctor Who canon. Its influence can be seen in subsequent Dalek stories and the broader narrative of the series.
Home Media and Restoration
While much of "The Evil of the Daleks" is missing due to the BBC's archival practices, the audio recordings and surviving episodes have been preserved. In recent years, efforts have been made to restore the serial for modern audiences, allowing new generations to experience this pivotal story.
The Daleks in Popular Culture
The Daleks have remained a cultural phenomenon, appearing in various forms of media beyond Doctor Who, including films, novels, and merchandise. Their impact on science fiction and popular culture is undeniable, with "The Evil of the Daleks" serving as a significant chapter in their extensive history.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "Doctor Who: The Evil of the Daleks" is a landmark serial that delves into the complexities of evil and the nature of humanity. Through its rich characters, thought-provoking themes, and compelling narrative, it has left an indelible mark on the Doctor Who legacy. The interplay between the Doctor and the Daleks not only serves as an exciting adventure but also as a reflection on the moral choices we all face. As Doctor Who continues to evolve, the lessons from this classic story remain relevant, ensuring that the battle between good and evil will always resonate with audiences, new and old.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary plot of 'Doctor Who: The Evil of the Daleks'?
'The Evil of the Daleks' involves the Second Doctor and his companion Jamie being captured by the Daleks who aim to experiment on human emotions to improve their own species.
Who wrote 'The Evil of the Daleks'?
'The Evil of the Daleks' was written by David Whitaker, who was a key contributor to the early Doctor Who series.
When was 'The Evil of the Daleks' originally aired?
'The Evil of the Daleks' originally aired in 1967, spanning episodes 39 to 44 of Season 4.
What notable aspect of 'The Evil of the Daleks' is often discussed?
The story is notable for its exploration of the concept of emotion in the Daleks, as they seek to understand and harness human feelings.
Which companion travels with the Second Doctor in this story?
Jamie McCrimmon, portrayed by Frazer Hines, is the companion who travels with the Second Doctor in 'The Evil of the Daleks.'
What are the Daleks trying to achieve in this serial?
The Daleks are trying to create a new, more powerful breed of Dalek by experimenting with the emotional responses of humans.
How does 'The Evil of the Daleks' contribute to the overall Doctor Who lore?
'The Evil of the Daleks' contributes to the lore by deepening the characterization of the Daleks and introducing the idea that they can evolve through understanding emotions.
Is 'The Evil of the Daleks' available in its entirety?
Unfortunately, 'The Evil of the Daleks' is partially missing, with only some episodes preserved; however, it has been animated for modern audiences.
