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Classic Who S1 • Serial 6 · (4 episodes)

The Aztecs

3.91/ 5 417 votes

First aired Saturday, May 23, 1964
Production Code F
Written by John Lucarotti
Directed by John Crockett
Runtime 100 minutes
Time Travel Past
Locations Earth Mexico
Synopsis

The arrival of the TARDIS in 15th century Mexico leads the crew to encounter the doomed Aztec people, a mixture of high culture and brutal savagery. Matters are further complicated when Barbara is mistaken for a god and the Doctor becomes engaged to be married.

4 Episodes:

First aired Saturday, May 23, 1964
Runtime 25 minutes
Written by John Lucarotti
Directed by John Crockett
UK Viewers 7.4 million
Appreciation Index 62

Synopsis

The TARDIS arrives on Earth landing in 16th century Aztec society. Barbara goes off exploring - despite the Doctor's orders not to wander off - and is taken away by the high priest Autloc who believes she is the reincarnation of the goddess Yetaxa. They believe it is a sign that the rains - which are late - will now come. The high priest of sacrifice Tlotoxl recruits Ian to lead their army but he finds he has a rival in Ixta. Ian is less than comfortable with his role when he learns that they are to deliver the human sacrifice to the high priest at the rain ceremony. The Doctor emphasizes that they must not interfere with Aztec rituals, something that does not sit well with Barbara.

First aired Saturday, May 30, 1964
Runtime 25 minutes
Written by John Lucarotti
Directed by John Crockett
UK Viewers 7.4 million
Appreciation Index 62

Synopsis

Barbara tries to change the course of history - and Ian fights for his life.

First aired Saturday, June 6, 1964
Runtime 25 minutes
Written by John Lucarotti
Directed by John Crockett
UK Viewers 7.9 million
Appreciation Index 57

Synopsis

While the Doctor tries to find a way back to the TARDIS, Tlotoxl continues to plot Barbara's downfall and sees an opening when Susan questions Aztec custom.

First aired Saturday, June 13, 1964
Runtime 25 minutes
Written by John Lucarotti
Directed by John Crockett
UK Viewers 7.4 million
Appreciation Index 58

Synopsis

Tlotoxl's machinations result in both Susan and Ian being arrested. With the TARDIS once again trapped inside the tomb, the travellers' only hope for escape lies with Autloc and Cameca.

Ratings are from TARDIS Guide members only.

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