“Oh, look, I don’t understand it anymore than you do. Even some of the things ‘Doctor Foreman’ says…..” Barbara Wright – An Unearthly Child
“That’s not his name. Who is he……? Doctor “Who”……? Perhaps if we knew his name, we might have a clue to all this. ….!” Ian Chesterton – An Unearthly Child
Teachers in space – and time
Ian
Ian Chesterton (played by William Russell) was a teacher at Coalhill school; in London. Along with Barbara, become the first non-alien companions of the Doctor; having taught the Doctor’s “grand-daughter” – Susan Forman.
In the original pilot An Unearthly Child – 1963, Ian – was a science teacher and Barbara; a history teacher. Together, they both noticed how academically gifted Susan Foreman was (they did not know they were dealing with an alien!). However, they also both noted how Susan struggled with some basic concepts, such as the current currency – in 1963.
Curious about Susan – and also concerned for her welfare, Ian suggested that they both follow Susan home, after school. Ending up at I.M Foreman’s Junkyard. Where they ended up in the Tardis and met the Doctor.
The Doctor and Susan, explained their origin to the two startled teachers – and then forcibly kidnapped them both. Taking both Ian and Barbara, on a journey through space-and-time; far into Earth’s past.
Barbara and Ian, revolt against their alien kidnappers in ‘Edge Of Destruction’ – 1963.
Ian was intelligent, headstrong, brash and fiercely protective – over Barbara & Susan. At first, he (and Barbara) clashed with the Doctor in The Edge of Destruction. Eventually, they both won the Doctor’s stubborn respect.
Later on, Ian was to become the Doctor’s soundboard for decision-making and went on to physically protect the Doctor. Ian’s army training was put to good use throughout their adventures. Ian developed some sword-fighting skills along the way (The Aztecs – 1964) and was even knighted by Richard Lionheart (The Crusades – 1964).
Ian also displayed abilities to organise – and lead others. Such as, when he was made to physically challenge the leader of the Aztecs; in The Aztecs – 1964. Or instead, when whipping up the Thals to attack the Daleks; in The Daleks.
Ian also overcame his documented personal fear of drowning in (The Romans – 1965) when he was forcibly sold into slavery – and the galleon he was aboard; sank. Forcing Ian, to swim – to survive drowning. He even gained his sea-legs, aboard the ghostly Marie Celeste; in The Crusade – 1965.
Barbara and Ian quickly became the moral compass of the time-travelling group. Frequently clashing with the Doctor over the Doctor’s alien-esque behaviour. In The Daleks – 1964, Ian castigated the Doctor, over the suggestion, that the Thals should mount a pointless suicide assault; against the Dalek city. Simply to retrieve an integral Tardis component, for the Doctor; which had been stolen by the Daleks. Knowing the cost of lives to retrieve the item.
Barbara
Barbara Wright (played by Jacqueline Hill) was a history teacher at Coalhill school, London. Whom, along with fellow teacher Ian; become the first Earthly companions, to be featured – in ODWho.
Barbara’s knowledge as an Earth history teacher, was to serve the Doctor well – on their shared travels. Barbara was able to advise the Doctor on the customs and practices; of different historical cultures. Including things, that the Doctor had forgotten or did nkt know.
In particular, how to blend in and hide within the local populace. So, as not to cause suspicion from hostile forces; such as in The Romans – 1965 & The Aztecs – 1964.
Barbara had a particular interest in the Aztec culture so was excited to experience it but was soon personally conflicted – as to the reality and horror of pointless human sacrifice; in The Aztec’s – 1964. Barbara was also, herself mistaken for a reincarnated deity. Unwisely using her new elevated standing, to try and make the Aztecs change their ways; by appealing to their better nature. However, Barbara had to reluctantly accept defeat – as those ways were too ingrained and fiercely protected; within the Aztec culture.
Barbara’s most important role – within The Tardis, was to look after the young and impressionable Susan. With whom, Barbara developed a motherly bond of protection and guidance. Susan herself, had a brilliant intellect but profoundly naive. Barbara being older and more experienced; attempted to protect Susan, from danger.
Barbara was particularly sad, when Susan left the Tardis but was coldly indifferent, to Vicki; who they met – in The Rescue – 1964.
Despite Ian & Barbara’s eventual enjoyment of their kidnap/adventure predicament. They both decided eventually to risk a trip in a Dalek time-ship to try and get back home – in The Chase – 1965,. Returning to London – in 1965, only 2 years after having originally left (in 1963). Choosing to leave the company of the Doctor and adventuring in space-and-time; for ever.
