The Behemoth

Main Range #231

Released: 11 October 2017

Listened: 9/4/20

This one is a pure historical, taking place in Bath, 1756. Both Constance and Flip have difficulty adapting to the social standards of the time. Unfortunately, slavery is also prevalent in this period, which forms the core of the story. The Doctor, however, seems to enjoy an evening out with an idle widow, much to Flip and Constance’s dismay. There’s also a runaway rhinoceros, which somehow manages to elude large crowds in the streets of Bath. The initial upper-class silliness takes a rather jarring turn when the slavery subplot moves to the fore. Doctor Who doesn’t have a great record of dealing with African characters, but it’s handled reasonably well here. As often happens in true historicals, the villains are completely vile, instead of having redeeming qualities. The underlying theme is of ownership, and the rights and responsibilities that go along with guardianship of another living being. In a small twist, the Doctor doubts his ability to make a short hop in the TARDIS, but then later lands her on a moving ship on the ocean with no trouble. Flip is notably less reckless than in her previous stint, but still very willing to talk back to people who offend her. It’s grim as pure historicals tend to be, but not entirely bleak.