Classic Doctor Who Season 1 Episode 29 The Aztecs: The Bride of Sacrifice

The Aztecs: The Bride of Sacrifice is the twenty-ninth episode of the first season of the classic science fiction television series Doctor Who, which aired on May 23, 1964. The episode was written by John Lucarotti and directed by John Crockett.

The Doctor, Ian, Barbara, and Susan find themselves in ancient Mexico in the year 1430. They are mistaken for the gods Tezcatlipoca and Yetaxa by the Aztecs, a civilization known for human sacrifices. The group is split up, with Susan spending time with the high priest, Ian becoming a warrior, and Barbara being mistaken for the reincarnation of the Goddess Yetaxa.

Barbara decides to use her new power as the reincarnated Goddess to put an end to the human sacrifices by trying to convince the Aztecs to change their ways. However, this decision puts her in conflict with the powerful and ambitious Tlotoxl, the current High Priest of Sacrifice. Tlotoxl is determined to prevent the end of human sacrifices, as he believes they have helped the Aztecs to build and maintain their empire.

Meanwhile, the Doctor attempts to use his scientific knowledge to change history and prevent the devastating consequences of the conquest of Mexico by the Spanish in the sixteenth century. However, he is warned that even small changes to the course of history can have unpredictable and potentially catastrophic consequences.

As the Doctor and his companions navigate through the complex and dangerous society of the Aztecs, they begin to learn more about the customs, beliefs, and traditions of this ancient civilization. They witness the power struggles, political intrigues, and religious ceremonies that shaped the worldviews and actions of the Aztecs.

The Aztecs: The Bride of Sacrifice is a fascinating exploration of culture clash, time travel, and morality that challenges the assumptions and values of both the modern viewers and the historical figures depicted in the episode. It raises important questions about the responsibilities of power, the meaning of sacrifice, and the limits of rationality and empathy in different historical contexts. It also showcases the talents of the original Doctor Who cast, who bring to life the complex and dynamic characters with humor, wit, and heart.