The TARDIS rematerilises inside an Aztec tomb and when Barbara (Jacqueline Hill), who conveniently is somewhat of an expert on the ancient Mesoamerican culture, steps out of the supposedly sealed chamber, she is immediately proclaimed the reincarnation of the Goddess Yetaxa, with the Doctor (William Hartnell) and Ian (William Russel) as her loyal servants and Susan (Carole Ann Ford) as her handmaiden. Barbara's soon attempts to change Aztec culture by eliminating human sacrifices, which puts her at odds with an increasingly suspicious and resentful Tlotoxl, High Priest of Sacrifice, (John Ringham) as well as with the Doctor who repeatedly warns her not to try to change history. As this is a TV program, that the Aztecs speak English (sounding almost Shakespearian) is excusable, the costumes and make-up are fun (whether they are 'realistic' is another question), and the sets and scenery, though not convincing, serve to backdrop the tale. Hartnell's Doctor is as tetchy as always and his exchanges with Barbera about accepting and respecting other cultures or about the futility of trying to alter history are well written and foreshadow current debates about the merits of 'presentism' (in which past actions are judged by present rather than contemporary standards). The clash of beliefs is nicely illustrated when Barbara uses her divine status to stop a human sacrifice only to learn that the intended 'victim' is furious with her for taking away the great honour that was to be bestowed on him. All in all, an intelligent, well-made (for the budget) historical outing with great performances by Hill and Ringham and an enlightened message about context, judgement and acceptance. *Score and comments pertain to the 4-part serial referred to as 'The Aztecs'.
Review of The Temple of Evil
