Doctor Who: Language and Representation
1) Write a summary of the notes from our in-class analysis of the episode. You can use your own notes from the screening in class or this Google document of class notes (you'll need your GHS Google login).
Camerawork and sound:
Music - theme tune to Doctor Who. Very science-fiction - sets genre from beginning.
Graphics on screen: title of show and episode. Simple text/font.
Slow, clunky camera movement (due to technology in 1960s).
Sound: hum of TARDIS (helps create science-fiction genre).
Susan - first introduced dancing and dressed as 1960s teenager (costume). Seems to be both typical teenager and alien.
Costume and hair typical of 1960s.
School - creates personal identity for audience.
Narrative and genre:
Opening title sequence like a rocket taking off - sci-fi genre and links to 1960s space race.
Enigma codes: mystery of Susan’s home. French Revolution book - “I’ll have finished it” “That’s not right”... suggests time travel.
2) How can we apply narrative theories to this episode of Doctor Who?
Todorov's Equilibrium:Propp's character theory:Barthes's enigma and action codes:Levi-Strauss's binary opposition:
In "An Unearthly Child," we can apply various narrative theories to analyse the storytelling structure. Todorov's Equilibrium theory can be seen in the initial equilibrium disrupted by the Doctor and his companions' journey through time and space. Propp's character theory can be applied to identify archetypal character roles such as the hero (the Doctor), the mentor (Susan), and the antagonist (the tribe leader). Barthes's enigma and action codes are evident in the mystery surrounding the Doctor and the unfolding of events as the characters navigate through different worlds and challenges. Levi-Strauss's binary opposition can be observed in the contrasting elements of technology and tradition, science and superstition, which create tension and drive the narrative forward in the episode.
3) In your opinion, what is the most important scene in the episode and why?
"An Unearthly Child" is classified as a science fiction television series, evident through its setting of a futuristic time machine, the TARDIS, disguised as a police box. The episode explores themes of time travel and alien worlds, typical of the science fiction genre. The character of the Doctor, portrayed as a mysterious and enigmatic figure with advanced knowledge and technology, further solidifies its classification as a science fiction series.
4) What genre is An Unearthly Child and how can you tell? Make specific reference to aspects of the episode.
"An Unearthly Child" is classified as a science fiction television series, evident through its setting of a futuristic time machine, the TARDIS, disguised as a police box. The episode explores themes of time travel and alien worlds, typical of the science fiction genre. The character of the Doctor, portrayed as a mysterious and enigmatic figure with advanced knowledge and technology, further solidifies its classification as a science fiction series.
5) How does An Unearthly Child reflect the social and historical contexts of the 1960s?
"An Unearthly Child," the first episode of the original "Doctor Who" series, reflects the social and historical contexts of the 1960s through its portrayal of a mysterious and eccentric character, the Doctor, who embodies the countercultural movements of the time. The show's exploration of time travel and alien worlds resonates with the growing interest in science fiction and space exploration during the era, capturing the spirit of innovation and curiosity that defined the 1960s
Representations
1) What stereotypes of men are reinforced and subverted in Doctor Who: An Unearthly Child? How?
1) What stereotypes of men are reinforced and subverted in Doctor Who: An Unearthly Child? How?
In "Doctor Who: An Unearthly Child," several stereotypes of men are both reinforced and subverted. The character of the Doctor, played by William Hartnell, initially embodies the stereotype of a wise and authoritative figure, reinforcing the idea of men as knowledgeable and in control. However, as the series progresses, the Doctor's character subverts this stereotype by showcasing vulnerability, eccentricity, and a willingness to learn from others, challenging traditional notions of masculinity.
Additionally, the character of Ian Chesterton, portrayed by William Russell, initially conforms to the stereotype of a strong and heroic male figure, as he is a science teacher who takes charge in difficult situations. However, Ian's character also subverts stereotypes by displaying compassion, empathy, and a willingness to listen to others, highlighting the complexity and depth of male characters in the series.
Overall, "Doctor Who: An Unearthly Child" presents a nuanced portrayal of men that both reinforces and challenges traditional stereotypes, ultimately showcasing the diversity and complexity of male characters in the science fiction genre
2) What stereotypes of women/girls are reinforced and subverted in Doctor Who: An Unearthly Child? How?
Additionally, the character of Ian Chesterton, portrayed by William Russell, initially conforms to the stereotype of a strong and heroic male figure, as he is a science teacher who takes charge in difficult situations. However, Ian's character also subverts stereotypes by displaying compassion, empathy, and a willingness to listen to others, highlighting the complexity and depth of male characters in the series.
Overall, "Doctor Who: An Unearthly Child" presents a nuanced portrayal of men that both reinforces and challenges traditional stereotypes, ultimately showcasing the diversity and complexity of male characters in the science fiction genre
2) What stereotypes of women/girls are reinforced and subverted in Doctor Who: An Unearthly Child? How?
There are both stereotypes of women/girls that are reinforced and subverted. One stereotype that is reinforced is the idea of women being more nurturing and caring, as seen in the character of Barbara Wright, who is a teacher and shows compassion towards others. However, this stereotype is also subverted through the character of Susan Foreman, who is portrayed as intelligent, independent, and adventurous, challenging traditional gender roles. Overall, the show presents a mix of both reinforcing and subverting stereotypes of women/girls.
3) How do the representations of young people and old people in An Unearthly Child reflect the social and historical context of the 1960s?
3) How do the representations of young people and old people in An Unearthly Child reflect the social and historical context of the 1960s?
"An Unearthly Child," the representations of young people and old people reflect the social and historical context of the 1960s in various ways. The character of Susan, a young girl with a rebellious spirit and a thirst for knowledge, embodies the changing attitudes of youth during that time period, as young people were increasingly questioning authority and seeking independence. On the other hand, the character of the Doctor, an older and mysterious figure, can be seen as a representation of traditional authority and wisdom, reflecting the societal respect for elders and established institutions in the 1960s. Overall, the dynamic between the young and old characters in the show reflects the generational tensions and shifting values of the 1960s.
4) What representations of race/ethnicity can be found in Doctor Who: An Earthly Child? Is this surprising or not? Give reasons for your answer and consider historical / cultural context (the 1960s). Has this changed in more recent series of Doctor Who?
4) What representations of race/ethnicity can be found in Doctor Who: An Earthly Child? Is this surprising or not? Give reasons for your answer and consider historical / cultural context (the 1960s). Has this changed in more recent series of Doctor Who?
5) How is social class represented in An Unearthly Child? Think about how education and knowledge is presented in the episode.
"An Unearthly Child," social class is represented through the character of Susan Foreman, who is portrayed as a highly intelligent and knowledgeable individual despite her young age. As a Time Lord, Susan comes from a higher social class and possesses advanced knowledge and education compared to the humans she interacts with. This is evident in her ability to understand complex concepts and technologies that are beyond the comprehension of her human peers. Additionally, the Doctor's role as a mysterious and enigmatic figure further emphasizes the class differences between the Time Lords and the humans they encounter. Overall, education and knowledge are presented as markers of social class and status in the episode.
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