Day six and we arrive at the sixth adventure: The Aztecs. First broadcast in May and June 1964, this four-part historical tale stands as one of the finest examples of early Doctor Who storytelling. Written by John Lucarotti, who previously crafted the lost classic Marco Polo, The Aztecs is a gripping exploration of culture, morality, and the consequences of meddling with history.
Rewatching The Aztecs today, it’s easy to see why it has earned such a strong reputation. It’s an adventure that balances drama and intrigue with thought-provoking themes, all set against the backdrop of a meticulously realised ancient civilisation.
The Story
The TARDIS lands inside an Aztec tomb, and Barbara, fascinated by the culture, emerges wearing a ceremonial bracelet. She is mistaken by the Aztec people as the reincarnation of their high priest Yetaxa. Initially reluctant, Barbara begins to embrace her new role, seeing it as an opportunity to end the Aztec practice of human sacrifice.
The Doctor, however, warns her of the dangers of trying to rewrite history, stating the now-iconic line: “You can’t rewrite history! Not one line!” As the crew becomes entangled in court politics and cultural tensions, their survival depends on navigating a society bound by strict traditions and unwavering beliefs.
Barbara’s Finest Hour
The Aztecs is undoubtedly Barbara’s story. Jacqueline Hill delivers a stunning performance, imbuing Barbara with strength, empathy, and a sense of moral duty. Her determination to end human sacrifice is both noble and misguided, and the story explores the complexity of her position with nuance and depth.
Barbara’s clash with the High Priest of Sacrifice, Tlotoxl, provides much of the drama. Tlotoxl, played with menacing intensity by John Ringham, is a brilliant antagonist—shrewd, cunning, and utterly devoted to maintaining the status quo. Their ideological battle is as gripping as any physical confrontation, showcasing the power of Doctor Who to engage with ethical dilemmas.
The Doctor’s Charm
While Barbara drives the narrative, the Doctor has his own memorable subplot. For the first time, we see the First Doctor engage in a romantic entanglement, as he forms a tender connection with Cameca, an Aztec woman. Their relationship is both touching and bittersweet, revealing a softer side to the Doctor while still reinforcing his primary commitment to his companions and their mission.
William Hartnell shines in these quieter moments, bringing warmth and humour to his performance. The scene where the Doctor unwittingly proposes to Cameca by sharing a cup of cocoa is a delightful mix of comedy and pathos, adding a human touch to an otherwise intense story.
Ian and Susan’s Roles
Ian once again proves himself as the crew’s action hero, taking on the warrior Ixta in a series of physical challenges. While these scenes lack the finesse of modern fight choreography, they succeed in building tension and showcasing Ian’s resourcefulness. His growing confidence and leadership further solidify his place as an essential member of the team.
Susan, however, is sidelined for much of the story, her role reduced to being a pawn in the Aztec political games. While her defiance against being forced into marriage is commendable, her limited screen time feels like a missed opportunity to explore her perspective on the cultural and ethical conflicts.
Themes of Cultural Relativity and Morality
The Aztecs is a masterclass in balancing drama with thematic depth. The story doesn’t shy away from exploring the complexities of cultural relativism, presenting the Aztec civilisation with both admiration and critique. The grandeur of their architecture, art, and rituals is celebrated, but the practice of human sacrifice is depicted as horrific and alien.
Barbara’s desire to change history reflects a very human instinct to right perceived wrongs, but the Doctor’s warnings about the consequences of interference add weight to the narrative. The serial leaves viewers grappling with questions about morality, power, and the ethical challenges of time travel.
Production and Design
The production values of The Aztecs are exceptional for the time. Barry Newbery’s set design captures the majesty and sophistication of the Aztec civilisation, with detailed temples and courtyards that feel authentic and immersive. Daphne Dare’s costumes are equally impressive, bringing vibrancy and authenticity to the characters’ appearances.
The direction by John Crockett is confident and dynamic, using close-ups and dramatic framing to heighten the tension and emotion. While the studio-bound limitations are occasionally evident, the production team’s commitment to creating a visually rich and engaging world is undeniable.
The Doctor’s Philosophy
The line “You can’t rewrite history! Not one line!” encapsulates the heart of The Aztecs. This is the first time the series explicitly confronts the moral and philosophical challenges of time travel, a theme that would become central to Doctor Who. The Doctor’s pragmatic approach contrasts with Barbara’s idealism, creating a compelling dynamic that adds depth to their relationship.
This episode also reinforces the idea that the Doctor is not omnipotent. He may be clever and resourceful, but he is ultimately bound by the rules of time and his own moral code. This vulnerability makes him a more relatable and compelling character.
From 1964 to Today
Viewed through a modern lens, The Aztecs remains one of the most compelling stories of early Doctor Who. Its themes of cultural relativism and historical consequence feel as relevant today as they did in 1964. The story’s slower pacing and theatrical dialogue might feel dated to contemporary viewers, but these elements also allow for a richness of character and theme that is often missing in faster-paced modern storytelling.
Legacy and Influence
The Aztecs is a landmark in Doctor Who history. It established the “pure historical” as a vital subgenre, proving that the show could deliver compelling drama without relying on science fiction tropes. Its exploration of morality and cultural conflict set a high bar for future historical stories, influencing everything from The Crusade (1965) to Vincent and the Doctor (2010).
Jacqueline Hill’s performance as Barbara remains one of the finest in the series’ history, and the serial’s focus on character and theme has made it a favourite among fans and scholars alike.
Final Thoughts
Rewatching The Aztecs provides a very early highlight. It’s a story that challenges its characters and viewers alike, forcing us to confront uncomfortable truths about morality, power, and the consequences of our actions. It’s a testament to the power of Doctor Who to entertain, educate, and provoke thought.
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