For decades, the iconic British science fiction seriesDoctor Whohas taken audiences on thrilling adventures through time and space, introducing us to a vast array of fascinating extraterrestrial species. One of the show’s most captivating creations, however, are just as terrestrial as humanity. These are the Silurians, ancient reptilian humanoids who have intrigued fans since their debut in the classic series.
The Silurians are not a one-size-fits-all species; they come in various forms and appearances. In fact, there were at least ten or eleven different types of Silurians. While many of them might seem quite similar at first glance, subtle differences exist among them, often linked to their societal roles. Silurian clans or families displayed distinct physical characteristics. But generally, Silurians were humanoid reptiles with scaly crests adorning their heads. They boasted impressive lifespans, often spanning hundreds of years.
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The Silurians made a lasting impact on theDoctor Whouniverse thanks to their unique qualities. Their scaly appearances are just the tip of the iceberg. What truly sets them apart is their deep-rooted connection to Earth’s history.
The Origins of the Silurians
The Silurians first graced screens in the1970 Third Doctor serial, “Doctor Who and the Silurians.” Created by legendaryDoctor Whowriter Malcolm Hulke, the Silurians are a prehistoric race that predates humanity by millions of years. They inhabited Earth during the time when dinosaurs roamed the planet, and were highly advanced in terms of science and technology. Hibernating in underground cities to escape a devastating impending catastrophe, the Silurians planned to reclaim their planet when conditions improved. However, they woke to find a new dominant species — humans — ruling the Earth.
This scenario set the stage for a recurring theme in theDoctor Whouniverse: the conflict between the Silurians' claim to Earth and humanity’s right to exist. Their story often serves as a reflection on themes of coexistence, xenophobia, and the consequences of unchecked human expansion.
Classic Series Encounters
In their initial appearance, the Third Doctor, played by Jon Pertwee, stumbles upon a Silurian base beneath a nuclear research facility. The ensuing struggle between the Silurians, the humans, and the Doctor culminates in tragedy as attempts at peaceful coexistence falter. The serial is a compelling exploration of moral ambiguity, with neither side emerging as a clear-cut antagonist.
Throughout the classic series, the Silurians made sporadic appearances, and their relationship with the Doctor evolved. In the Fifth Doctor serial “Warriors of the Deep,” the Silurians and theiraquatic cousins, the Sea Devils, return as adversaries. These reptilian races once again test the Doctor’s diplomatic skills as he attempts to prevent a war between them and humanity.
The Silurians in the Doctor Who Revival
With the revival ofDoctor Whoin 2005, the Silurians emerged from the depths of time to once again play a significant role in the series. Their return came in the form of a two-part story in 2010 with the Eleventh Doctor, titled “The Hungry Earth” and “Cold Blood.” This marked their first appearance following the show’s hiatus and subsequent revival. These new-generation Silurians differ from their 1970–1984 counterparts. Notably, they lack the iconic third eye and often wear masks.
In this story, set in 2020, the Silurians are awakened by a drilling operation deep underground, mistaking it for a deliberate attack. The misunderstanding leads to the Silurians taking hostages, resulting in a protracted conflict. TheEleventh Doctor, portrayed by Matt Smith, takes a bold step by leaving behind Tony Mack and Nasreen Chaudhry as ambassadors to represent the human race when the Silurians awaken again in a thousand years. However, they re-emerge just 64 years later in “Warriors of the Deep.”
In another intriguing turn of events, some Silurians make a cameo appearance in the episode “The Pandorica Opens,” set in A.D. 102. They join forces with various alien enemies of the Doctor, including Daleks, Cybermen, Sontarans, Judoon, and other species, in an attempt to imprison the Doctor in the mythical Pandorica. Their goal, as they see it, is to save the universe from the perceived threat posed by the Doctor.
Among the most memorable Silurian characters isMadame Vastra, portrayed by the brilliant Neve McIntosh. Vastra is a unique female Silurian warrior from the Mesozoic era. She awakens from her slumber during the Victorian, era when her lair is disrupted by the construction of the London Underground.
Initially, Vastra’s awakening is marked by anger, leading her to take the lives of five commuters before the Doctor intervenes and calms her down. Over time, she overcomes her race’s general prejudice towards humans, and integrates into London society. She takes onthe role of a consulting detectivefor Scotland Yard, serving as a possible inspiration for the Sherlock Holmes stories. One of her most intriguing, albeit unseen, adventures is her capture of Jack the Ripper, whom she refers to as “stringy, but tasty all the same.”
The Legacy of the Silurians
In a show known for its ability to reflect on contemporary social and political issues through the lens of science fiction, the Silurians serve as a powerful metaphor for real-world conflicts related to environmental conservation, indigenous rights, and the consequences of human expansion. Their continued presence inDoctor Whoillustrates the show’s commitment to revisiting andreimagining classic elements of its lorewhile infusing them with fresh relevance and emotional depth. The Silurians possess an intricate backstory, thought-provoking narratives, and morally ambiguous characters. They remain a testament to the enduring power ofDoctor Whoto captivate and challenge its audience.
From their origins in the classic series to their appearances, the Silurians have left an indelible mark on the British sci-fi series. Their allegorical significance makes them a compelling addition to the show’s rich tapestry of alien species. As Whovians continue to explore the ever-expandingDoctor Whouniverse, it’s certain that the enigmatic Silurians will continue to be a source of fascination and introspection for fans of the Time Lord’s adventures.
