Classic Doctor Who Season 1 Episode 30 The Aztecs: The Day of Darkness

The Aztecs is the eighth serial in the first season of the British sci-fi television series Classic Doctor Who, comprising four episodes that were originally broadcast from May 23 to June 13, 1964. In this episode titled "The Day of Darkness," the Doctor and his companions arrive in Mexico during the height of the Aztec civilization. The TARDIS lands in an Aztec temple, where the travelers are soon mistaken for gods.

Barbara, one of the Doctor's companions, is fascinated with the Aztec society and decides to interfere with their culture in order to stop their practice of human sacrifice. The Doctor, meanwhile, is determined to leave as soon as possible and avoid any changes to history. However, when Barbara becomes engaged to the Aztec High Priest, a chain of events ensues that puts both her and the Doctor in grave danger.

As the episode progresses, the Doctor and his companions become more deeply entrenched in the Aztec way of life. Ian, another companion, is drafted into the emperor's army while Susan, the Doctor's granddaughter, becomes embroiled in a romance with an Aztec warrior. With the arrival of the Day of Darkness, a rare astronomical event which the Aztecs interpret as an omen of doom, tensions reach a fever pitch in the city.

As the Day of Darkness approaches, the Doctor realizes that Barbara's meddling has set in motion a series of events that could result in her own sacrifice. He rushes to intervene, but finds himself in conflict with the High Priest and other Aztec officials who view him as a rival god. The Doctor's attempts to convince them otherwise fall on deaf ears, and his situation looks increasingly dire.

In this episode, viewers gain insight into the Doctor's complex personality and his reluctance to interfere with history. The Aztecs' civilization is depicted in rich detail, from their elaborate costumes and rituals to the intricate tunnels and passageways beneath their city. The episode raises important questions about the nature of cultural exchange and the dangers of imposing one's own values on another society.

Overall, "The Day of Darkness" is a thought-provoking episode that showcases Classic Doctor Who's unique blend of science fiction and historical drama. Fans of the series will enjoy watching the Doctor and his companions navigate the complex social and political landscape of the Aztec Empire, while newcomers will be drawn in by the show's engaging characters and imaginative storytelling.