Ep 15. The Romans: Inferno
- February 6, 1965
- 23 min
In “The Romans: Inferno,” the second season’s fifteenth episode of Classic Doctor Who, the Doctor and his companions find themselves in ancient Rome. This episode serves as a historical adventure, exploring the culture and politics of the Roman Empire while also providing some comedic relief with the Doctor’s usual wit and antics.
The TARDIS lands in a villa just outside Rome, where the Doctor, Barbara, Ian, and Vicki plan to take a break from their travels and enjoy a bit of relaxation. However, they soon learn that they have arrived during the reign of the infamous Emperor Nero and are inadvertently drawn into a web of political intrigue and murder.
The episode begins with the Doctor and Ian exploring the villa while Barbara and Vicki stay behind. The Doctor is quick to immerse himself in the local culture, trying on a toga and practicing his Latin. Meanwhile, Ian discovers that the villa’s owner is planning to poison the Emperor, and he must race against time to prevent the assassination.
As the episode progresses, the Doctor and his companions cross paths with several historical figures, including Julius Caesar and Nero himself. The Doctor even finds himself participating in a chariot race, adding to the excitement and adventure of the episode.
Alongside the historical aspects of the episode, there are also several comedic moments that help to lighten the mood. One standout scene involves the Doctor and Vicki pretending to be musician slaves in order to infiltrate Nero’s palace. The Doctor’s attempts to play the lyre are particularly amusing.
Despite its lighthearted moments, “The Romans: Inferno” also touches on some darker themes. Nero’s reign was known for its brutality and violence, and the episode does not shy away from portraying this. The final act of the episode sees the Doctor and his companions forced to confront the realities of life in ancient Rome and make some tough choices.
Overall, “The Romans: Inferno” is a well-crafted and fun episode that provides a nice break from the show’s usual sci-fi fare. It is also notable for its historical accuracy, with the sets and costumes being meticulously researched and created. This attention to detail helps to transport viewers back in time and immerse them in the world of ancient Rome.