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.

Mise-en-scene: 

  • Susan - first introduced dancing and dressed as 1960s teenager (costume). Seems to be both typical teenager and alien.


Narrative and genre: 

  • Opening title sequence like a rocket taking off - sci-fi genre and links to 1960s space race.


2) How can we apply narrative theories to this episode of  Doctor Who? 

Todorov's Equilibrium: 
In the episode “An Unearthly Child” of Doctor Who, Todorov’s Equilibrium theory can be applied to analyze the narrative structure. Todorov’s theory suggests that narratives begin with a state of equilibrium, which is disrupted by an event leading to a period of disequilibrium

Propp's character theory:
 Propp’s character theory identifies recurring character types and functions in narratives. In “An Unearthly Child,” we can see the application of Propp’s theory through characters such as the Doctor, who fits the role of the hero or protagonist.

Barthes's enigma and action codes:
 Barthes’s enigma and action codes focus on creating suspense and engaging audiences through mysteries and actions within a narrative. In “An Unearthly Child,” these codes are evident in the mysterious nature of the Doctor and Susan, as well as in the actions t

Levi-Strauss's binary opposition: 
Levi-Strauss’s theory of binary opposition explores how narratives often rely on contrasting pairs or dualities to create meaning and structure. In “An Unearthly Child,” binary oppositions

3) In your opinion, what is the most important scene in the episode and why?

The most important scene in the episode “An Unearthly Child” is the moment when the TARDIS is revealed to be bigger on the inside. This iconic scene not only introduces viewers to the fantastical concept of a time machine disguised as a police box but also sets the stage for the entire premise of Doctor Who.


4) What genre is An Unearthly Child and how can you tell? Make specific reference to aspects of the episode.
the title itself suggests a supernatural or otherworldly theme, which is a common element in science fiction stories. The title’s use of the word “unearthly” implies something that is not of this Earth, further emphasizing the science fiction genre.


5) How does An Unearthly Child reflect the social and historical contexts of the 1960s?
 the serial deals with themes of childhood and adolescence, which were significant during the 1960s. The BBC’s Children’s Hour programming during this period focused on providing educational and entertaining content for children and teenagers. An Unearthly Child portrays Susan Foreman, a teenager from TARDIS (Time And Relative Dimension In Space), who is trying to fit in with her contemporary peers at Coal Hill School. This theme resonated with the audience as it mirrored their own experiences and struggles during that time.

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