As we countdown to the arrival of Ncuti Gatwa's first full season as the Doctor, premiering next month (May 2024), it's time to look back at his predecessors' eras - a brief history of time travel, if you will. First up, it's the First Doctor, William Hartnell. The original...
The inception of "Doctor Who" in 1963 marked a revolutionary moment in British television. This unique science fiction series introduced audiences to a mysterious character known as the Doctor, portrayed by William Hartnell, whose tenure from November 23, 1963, to October 29, 1966, laid the groundwork for a cultural phenomenon that has endured for decades. The William Hartnell era not only established the foundational mythology of the show but also introduced a format of storytelling that would captivate audiences of all ages. This retrospective explores the origins, legacy, notable figures involved, key adventures, characters, and the distinctive elements that made Hartnell's era of "Doctor Who" a significant part of British television history.
At its core, "Doctor Who" was conceived as an educational program for children, with stories alternating between historical adventures intended to teach history and futuristic or science fiction tales aimed at sparking an interest in science. This educational aspect was a significant part of the show's early identity, seen through storylines that took viewers back in time to significant historical events or introduced them to alien worlds and futuristic technologies.
William Hartnell's portrayal of the Doctor was characterized by a gruff exterior, which belied a deeply compassionate and morally upright core. Hartnell's Doctor was a mysterious figure, a Time Lord from the planet Gallifrey, though much of his background would remain unexplored until later iterations of the series. The Doctor's initial companions, his granddaughter Susan Foreman (Carole Ann Ford) and schoolteachers Ian Chesterton (William Russell) and Barbara Wright (Jacqueline Hill), provided the narrative bridge for audiences, introducing them to the wonders and dangers of time travel aboard the TARDIS, a time machine with the outward appearance of a British police box.
Throughout Hartnell's tenure, "Doctor Who" experimented with various narrative themes, including the consequences of time travel, the importance of compassion and understanding across different cultures and species, and the battle between good and evil. These themes were explored through the Doctor's interactions with his companions, adversaries, and the people they encountered on their travels. This was evident right from the pilot episode of "Doctor Who," titled "An Unearthly Child." An adventure emblematic of the series' innovative approach to science fiction on television. It introduced viewers to the mysterious and somewhat irascible Doctor, his unearthly granddaughter Susan, and the iconic TARDIS. The episode set the tone for the series, blending the everyday with the fantastic, and laid the groundwork for the show's explorations of time and space. The pilot was also notable for its technical achievements, including the innovative use of electronic music and sound effects to create an otherworldly atmosphere.
The Hartnell era was notable for its introduction of iconic adversaries, including the Daleks, created by writer Terry Nation. The Daleks made their first appearance in the show's second serial, quickly becoming the Doctor's most formidable enemies and a symbol of the series. The storytelling during this period was ambitious, with serialized narratives that allowed for extensive character development and complex plots.
As well as Nation, significant writers during this era included David Whitaker, the show's first story editor, who played a crucial role in shaping the series' narrative and tone. Directors such as Waris Hussein and Douglas Camfield were instrumental in translating these stories to the screen, overcoming the limitations of the time with innovative techniques that enhanced the show's visual storytelling.
The William Hartnell years were marked by many memorable adventures, such as "The Dalek Invasion of Earth," which showcased the series' ability to blend thrilling narratives with emotional depth. This story arc not only solidified the Daleks as a central threat but also featured the departure of Susan, the Doctor's first companion to leave the series, in a poignant farewell that highlighted the show's capacity for character development.
The sociopolitical context of the 1960s, marked by significant cultural and political upheaval, had a profound influence on "Doctor Who's" themes and narratives. This era saw the height of the Cold War, the civil rights movement, and the beginning of the space race, events that shaped the global consciousness. "Doctor Who" responded to these realities by promoting themes of understanding, peace, and the importance of science and exploration as tools for mutual progress. The show often presented the Doctor as a mediator in conflicts, embodying the ideals of non-violence and empathy. For instance, stories like the aforementioned "The Dalek Invasion of Earth" can be seen as allegories for resistance against oppression, reflecting the yearning for freedom and justice prevalent in the 1960s.
Other notable adventures include "Marco Polo," one of the earliest serials and now sadly lost save for audio recordings and still photographs, exemplifies the show's educational ambitions. This historical adventure took viewers back to the 13th century, weaving a narrative that was both entertaining and informative. The story's emphasis on cultural exchange and understanding was a testament to the show's commitment to presenting history as a dynamic and interconnected tapestry, reflecting the 1960s interest in global cultures and histories.
The behind-the-scenes production of the Hartnell era was marked by challenges, including budget constraints and the technical limitations of the time. However, these limitations often spurred creativity, resulting in innovative storytelling and visual effects techniques. The show's theme tune, composed by Ron Grainer and realized by Delia Derbyshire at the BBC Radiophonic Workshop, was groundbreaking in its use of electronic music, setting a precedent for the series and becoming one of the most recognizable television themes in history.
Hartnell's health began to decline during his tenure on the show. "The Tenth Planet," Hartnell's final serial, is historically significant for introducing the Cybermen and the concept of regeneration. This story arc, set in the then-future of 1986, dealt with themes of technology and dehumanization, presciently anticipating concerns about the relationship between humanity and technology. The introduction of the Cybermen, with their chilling disregard for emotion and individuality, served as a cautionary tale about the loss of humanity in the pursuit of technological advancement. The serial also marked a pivotal moment in the series with the Doctor's regeneration, a bold narrative device that allowed for the recasting of the lead role and ensured the show's longevity.
The William Hartnell years of "Doctor Who" laid the foundations for a series that has become a staple of science fiction television. Hartnell's portrayal of the Doctor established a character archetype that has been iterated upon by successive actors, each bringing their unique interpretation to the role while honoring the essence of the character introduced by Hartnell. The series' ability to blend educational content with entertainment, its introduction of iconic characters and adversaries, and its innovative use of storytelling and production techniques have ensured its enduring popularity.
In the context of today's television landscape, the Hartnell era of "Doctor Who" stands as a testament to the show's timeless appeal. Its themes of exploration, curiosity, and the value of kindness and moral integrity remain relevant, demonstrating the series' ability to engage with audiences across generations. While television production values and storytelling techniques have evolved, the fundamental elements that made the Hartnell era captivating continue to resonate with fans old and new.
Comparing and contrasting the Hartnell era with subsequent eras of "Doctor Who" reveals the evolution of the series in response to changing audience expectations and advancements in television production. Subsequent Doctors, such as Patrick Troughton's "cosmic hobo," brought a more whimsical and approachable personality to the character, contrasting with Hartnell's stern grandfatherly figure. The introduction of color broadcasting in the Jon Pertwee era brought a new dimension to the show's visual storytelling, allowing for more elaborate and vibrant alien worlds and creatures. Narratively, later eras would explore more complex themes, including moral ambiguity and the psychological depth of the Doctor and his companions, reflecting broader changes in television drama towards more nuanced and character-driven stories.
In conclusion, the William Hartnell years of "Doctor Who" represent a seminal period in the series' history. Through its pioneering approach to science fiction storytelling, the introduction of iconic characters and elements, and its enduring legacy, this era set the stage for a series that has become an integral part of popular culture. As "Doctor Who" continues to evolve, the Hartnell era remains a cherished chapter in its ongoing saga, a reminder of the series' roots, and its capacity to inspire wonder and imagination in audiences around the world.
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