Ep 2. An Unearthly Child, An Unearthly Child
- November 23, 1963
In the second episode of Doctor Who's first season, titled "An Unearthly Child," the Doctor and his companions, Barbara, Ian, and Susan, find themselves stranded in prehistoric times after the TARDIS accidentally takes off while they are outside exploring. As they try to find a way back to the TARDIS, they encounter a tribe of cavemen who are struggling to make fire, and must convince them that they come in peace.
The episode begins with Barbara and Ian confronting the Doctor about Susan's strange behavior and their suspicion that he and his granddaughter are not what they seem. The Doctor denies their accusations and insists that they leave him and Susan alone. However, when the TARDIS takes off with them still outside, the Doctor is forced to reveal the truth about his time and space travel.
Once they land on Earth, they discover that they have traveled back in time to the Paleolithic era. As they explore their surroundings, they come across a band of cavemen who are struggling to make fire and are unable to defend themselves against a rival tribe. The Doctor and his companions are taken captive by the cavemen, but manage to escape with the help of their ingenuity and Susan's advanced knowledge of science.
As they attempt to make their way back to the TARDIS, they must navigate the treacherous and unfamiliar terrain of prehistoric Earth, all while avoiding dangerous predators and conflicted tribes of cavemen. They also come to realize the true significance of the primitive cultures they encounter and the human struggle for survival throughout history.
"An Unearthly Child" is a thrilling and educational episode that demonstrates the inventive storytelling and dynamic characters that have made Doctor Who a beloved science fiction series for over 50 years. With its combination of time travel, adventure, and social commentary, this episode sets the tone for the rest of the series and establishes the Doctor as a timeless hero who fights for justice and knowledge across the universe.