What Are the Daleks in Doctor Who?

Doctor Who is a British science fiction television series that has been captivating audiences for decades. One of the most iconic and feared villains in the show is the Daleks. Daleks are a race of aliens that were created by a scientist named Davros. They are known for their distinctive pepperpot-like appearance and their single-minded pursuit of the destruction of all non-Dalek life. The Daleks have been a part of Doctor Who since the show’s second season and have become one of the most enduring and memorable elements of the series. In this article, we will explore the history and significance of the Daleks in Doctor Who.

Quick Answer:
The Daleks are a fictional alien race in the British science fiction television show Doctor Who. They are one of the show’s most iconic and enduring villains, first appearing in the series in 1963. The Daleks are shown as an advanced and technologically advanced race of beings who are bent on universal domination and extermination of all other life forms. They are characterized by their distinctive pepperpot-shaped exterior and their single-minded desire for power and control. The Daleks are known for their catchphrase “Exterminate!”, which they often use when threatening or attacking their enemies. Over the course of the show’s history, the Daleks have been featured in many memorable storylines and have become one of the most recognizable and beloved elements of Doctor Who.

What is Doctor Who?

Brief history of Doctor Who

Doctor Who is a British science fiction television series that has been on air since 1963. The show follows the adventures of a time traveler known as the Doctor, who explores the universe in a time and space ship called the TARDIS. Along with his companions, the Doctor battles various foes, saves civilizations, and tries to unravel the mysteries of the universe.

The show has a rich history, spanning over five decades, and has become a cultural icon in the UK and around the world. It has been praised for its imaginative storytelling, humor, and engaging characters. Doctor Who has also been recognized for its influence on popular culture, inspiring numerous books, comics, and spin-off media.

Throughout its history, Doctor Who has undergone several changes, including changes in cast, production team, and storylines. However, one constant element has remained throughout the show’s run: the Daleks.

The Daleks are one of the most iconic and feared villains in Doctor Who. They are a race of mutants who have travelled through time and space, seeking to conquer and enslave other civilizations. The Daleks are known for their distinctive design, which features a mechanical shell and a single eye, and their catchphrase, “Exterminate!”

The Daleks were first introduced in the show’s second serial, “The Daleks,” in 1963. They quickly became popular with audiences and have since appeared in numerous episodes and spin-off media. The Daleks have been portrayed as both comical and terrifying, and their presence in Doctor Who has contributed to the show’s enduring popularity.

In summary, Doctor Who is a long-running science fiction television series that has become a cultural icon. The show features a time traveler known as the Doctor, who explores the universe in a time and space ship called the TARDIS. One of the most iconic and feared villains in the show is the Daleks, a race of mutants who seek to conquer and enslave other civilizations. The Daleks were first introduced in the show’s second serial in 1963 and have since become a beloved and feared presence in Doctor Who.

Overview of the show

Doctor Who is a British science fiction television show that has been on air since 1963. The show follows the adventures of a time traveler known as the Doctor, who explores the universe in a time and space ship called the TARDIS. Along with his companions, the Doctor battles various enemies and saves planets and civilizations throughout time and space.

Doctor Who is known for its creative storytelling, humor, and intricate plotlines. The show has a cult following and has inspired numerous spin-offs, merchandise, and adaptations around the world. It has also won numerous awards for its writing, acting, and production values.

In addition to the Daleks, Doctor Who features a wide range of alien races, characters, and settings, making it a rich and diverse universe for viewers to explore. Whether you’re a fan of action, drama, comedy, or science fiction, Doctor Who has something for everyone.

What are the Daleks?

Key takeaway: The Daleks are one of the most iconic and feared villains in the British science fiction television series Doctor Who. They are a race of mutants who have travelled through time and space, seeking to conquer and enslave other civilizations. The Daleks were first introduced in the show’s second serial in 1963 and have since become a beloved and feared presence in Doctor Who.

Origin of the Daleks

The Daleks are a fictional alien race that appear in the British science fiction television series Doctor Who. They were created by a scientist named Davros and first appeared in the show in 1963. According to the show’s canon, the Daleks were originally a peaceful and intelligent race, but they were driven to become aggressive and warlike due to their extreme fear of being exterminated by other species.

The Daleks are known for their distinctive appearance, which consists of a mechanical body inside a spherical travel machine. They are able to fly and move independently when outside of their travel machines, and they use weapons that are built into their arms to attack and exterminate their enemies.

In terms of their origin, Davros is portrayed as a genius scientist who was born on the planet Skaro, which was ravaged by war. He created the Daleks as a means of protecting his people from their enemies, but he also saw them as a way to achieve his own ambitions for power and domination. According to the show’s canon, Davros was a member of a group called the Kaleds, who were one of two main groups of people on Skaro. The other group was called the Thals, and they were in a state of constant conflict with the Kaleds.

Davros’s creation of the Daleks was initially intended as a means of defense against the Thals, but he soon realized that he could use the Daleks to gain an advantage over the Kaleds as well. He began to modify and enhance the Daleks, giving them more advanced weapons and armor, and he eventually gained control over them. The Daleks then turned on the Kaleds and began a campaign of extermination, wiping out most of the Kaled race.

Davros himself was left crippled and dependent on a life-support machine, but he continued to control the Daleks and use them for his own purposes. Over time, the Daleks became more and more ruthless and aggressive, and they began to conquer other planets and species across the galaxy. They became known as one of the most feared and dangerous enemies in the universe, and they remained a constant threat to the Doctor and his companions throughout the series.

Appearance and design of the Daleks

The Daleks are a race of extraterrestrial beings that appear in the British science fiction television series Doctor Who. They are known for their distinctive appearance and design, which has become an iconic symbol of the show.

The Daleks are small, metallic creatures with a single eye-stalk and a gun-like device attached to their front. They are encased in a shell-like armor that is round at the bottom and narrows towards the top, giving them a pepper pot-like appearance. The Daleks are unable to move on their own and must be propelled around by their operators, who are typically human beings or other creatures that have been assimilated into the Dalek Empire.

The design of the Daleks has evolved over the course of the show’s history, with changes made to the color scheme, armor plating, and other details. However, the basic appearance and design of the Daleks has remained largely consistent, with their distinctive pepper pot shape and single eye-stalk being a defining feature of the race.

Despite their limited mobility, the Daleks are highly advanced beings with advanced technology and weaponry at their disposal. They are fiercely intelligent and possess a single-minded determination to conquer and enslave other beings, making them one of the most formidable enemies faced by the Doctor and his companions in the series.

Characteristics of the Daleks

The Daleks are a fictional race of aliens in the British science fiction television series Doctor Who. They were first introduced in the show’s second serial, “The Daleks,” which aired in 1963. The Daleks are one of the most iconic and enduring elements of the Doctor Who franchise, and have become a popular symbol of British popular culture.

One of the defining characteristics of the Daleks is their distinctive, armored appearance. The Daleks are small, round creatures with a metallic, shell-like body and a single eye-stalk. They are unable to move on their own and must be propelled along by their operators, who control them from within the shell.

The Daleks are also known for their war-like nature and their relentless pursuit of power and domination. They are driven by a single-minded desire to conquer and enslave other races, and will stop at nothing to achieve their goals. They are often depicted as being highly intelligent and resourceful, but also prone to bouts of irrational behavior and emotional outbursts.

Despite their fearsome reputation, the Daleks are not invincible. They are vulnerable to certain types of attacks, such as fire and water, and can be defeated by a skilled opponent. However, they are able to repair themselves and recover from even severe damage, making them a formidable foe for the Doctor and his companions.

Overall, the Daleks are a complex and multifaceted villain, capable of inspiring both fear and fascination in viewers. They are a central part of the Doctor Who universe, and their influence can be seen in countless episodes and storylines throughout the show’s history.

Role in Doctor Who

The Daleks are a fictional race of aliens that appear in the British science fiction television series Doctor Who. They were created by Terry Nation and first appeared in the show’s second serial, “The Daleks,” which was broadcast in 1963.

The Daleks are known for their distinctive appearance, which consists of a metal cylinder-shaped body, a dome-shaped head with a single eye, and a long, retractable “suit” that covers their arm and leg. They move around on two legs and are equipped with a “gun” that can be used to exterminate their enemies.

In the show, the Daleks are portrayed as a powerful and technologically advanced race that seeks to conquer and enslave other planets and species. They are frequently at odds with the Doctor, who is a Time Lord and the protagonist of the series. The Doctor often uses his knowledge of time and space to outsmart the Daleks and save the universe from their destructive plans.

Despite their villainous nature, the Daleks have become one of the most iconic and enduring elements of Doctor Who. They have appeared in hundreds of episodes over the course of the show’s history and have inspired countless fan theories and creative works.

How do the Daleks fit into the Doctor Who universe?

The Doctor’s nemesis

The Daleks are a powerful and malevolent alien race that serve as the Doctor’s primary nemesis in the television series Doctor Who. They are one of the longest-running and most iconic villains in the show’s history, having first appeared in the very first season in 1963.

The Daleks are a mutant race of beings who have been forced to live inside heavily armored casings due to their weakened physical state. They are completely driven by a desire for power and control, and seek to conquer and enslave other races throughout the universe. They are particularly fixated on destroying the Time Lords, a race of beings that the Doctor belongs to, and are determined to exterminate them all.

The Daleks are incredibly advanced in terms of technology, and possess weapons and devices that are capable of causing immense destruction. They are also highly intelligent and resourceful, constantly seeking new ways to achieve their goals and outwit their enemies.

Despite their fearsome reputation, the Daleks are not invincible, and the Doctor has managed to defeat them on numerous occasions throughout the series. However, they always seem to find a way to come back, making them one of the most enduring and formidable villains in all of science fiction.

Other alien races in Doctor Who

Doctor Who is a British science fiction television series that has been airing since 1963. The show follows the adventures of a time traveler known as the Doctor, who explores the universe in a time and space ship called the TARDIS. The Doctor, who is an alien himself, frequently encounters various alien races while traveling through time and space.

One of the most iconic and well-known alien races in Doctor Who is the Daleks. The Daleks are a mutant race of beings who are encased in armored shells and use weapons that fire laser beams. They are known for their catchphrase “Exterminate!” and their hatred towards all other life forms.

However, the Daleks are not the only alien race that the Doctor encounters in the series. There are many other alien races that the Doctor interacts with, each with their own unique characteristics and abilities. Some of the most notable alien races in Doctor Who include:

  • The Cybermen: A race of cyborgs who are intent on converting all organic life into cybernetic creatures like themselves.
  • The Sontarans: A warrior race from the planet Sontar, who are known for their brutal tactics and love of battle.
  • The Weeping Angels: A race of aliens who can only move when no one is looking at them, making them nearly impossible to defeat.
  • The Ood: A humanoid race with tentacles for arms and a large, cerebral brain that is used for telepathic communication.
  • The Silurians: A race of reptilian humanoids who are the last survivors of their planet, which was destroyed in a war with humanity.

These are just a few examples of the many alien races that the Doctor encounters in Doctor Who. Each race brings its own unique challenges and threats to the Doctor and his companions, making the universe of Doctor Who a vast and diverse place.

The Daleks’ impact on the show’s storylines

The Daleks have been a prominent and recurring villain in Doctor Who since their first appearance in the show’s second serial, “The Daleks,” in 1963. They have since become one of the most iconic and enduring elements of the series, and their impact on the show’s storylines has been significant.

The Daleks’ presence in Doctor Who has provided a source of ongoing conflict for the Doctor and his companions, often serving as the central antagonists in key storylines. They have been responsible for some of the most memorable and dramatic moments in the show’s history, including the destruction of entire planets and the deaths of numerous characters.

In addition to their role as villains, the Daleks have also played a key role in exploring themes of morality and ethics within the show. Their single-minded pursuit of their own agenda, regardless of the cost to others, has served as a foil to the Doctor’s more compassionate and empathetic approach to problem-solving.

Overall, the Daleks have had a profound impact on the Doctor Who universe, both in terms of the show’s storylines and its themes. Their enduring popularity and significance speak to their lasting influence on the series as a whole.

Why are the Daleks so iconic?

Cultural significance of the Daleks

The Daleks have become an iconic symbol of British popular culture, representing a unique fusion of science fiction and British history. They have become emblematic of the long-standing fascination with technology, war, and power in British society.

The Daleks have transcended their origins as a fictional alien race and have come to represent a larger cultural phenomenon. They have been referenced in various forms of media, including music, literature, and film, and have been featured in exhibitions, museums, and other cultural institutions.

One of the reasons for the Daleks’ cultural significance is their design. The combination of a metallic exterior, a distinctive mechanical shape, and a unique mechanical voice has made them instantly recognizable and memorable. This distinctive appearance has contributed to their popularity and has allowed them to transcend their original purpose as mere fictional characters.

The Daleks have also been significant in shaping the development of Doctor Who as a television series. They have been featured in some of the most popular and memorable episodes of the show, and their popularity has helped to sustain the series over time. The Daleks have become an integral part of the Doctor Who universe, and their continued presence in the show has helped to maintain its popularity and cultural significance.

The Daleks have also had a significant impact on popular culture more broadly. They have been referenced in various forms of media, including music, literature, and film, and have been featured in exhibitions, museums, and other cultural institutions. They have become a part of the British cultural landscape, representing a unique fusion of science fiction and British history.

Overall, the cultural significance of the Daleks in Doctor Who cannot be overstated. They have become an iconic symbol of British popular culture, representing a unique fusion of science fiction and British history. Their design, their impact on Doctor Who, and their influence on popular culture more broadly have all contributed to their enduring popularity and cultural significance.

The Daleks’ influence on popular culture

The Daleks have had a profound impact on popular culture, their influence spanning across various mediums and platforms. Here are some of the ways in which the Daleks have left their mark:

In literature

The Daleks have been featured in numerous books, including novels, reference guides, and anthologies. Some of these books have been written by official Doctor Who authors, while others have been produced by fans. The Daleks have also appeared in comic books, both in official Doctor Who comics and in fan-made publications.

In film and television

The Daleks have been parodied and referenced in numerous films and television shows, including sci-fi and non-sci-fi productions. They have also appeared in animated series, such as the animated Doctor Who serial “The Infinite Quest.”

In music

The Daleks have inspired numerous songs, both by official Doctor Who music producers and by fans. Some of these songs are homages to the Daleks, while others are critical of their actions.

In fan culture

The Daleks are one of the most popular elements of Doctor Who fandom, with many fans creating their own Dalek-themed artwork, costumes, and props. They are also a common feature at Doctor Who conventions and fan events.

Overall, the Daleks have had a significant impact on popular culture, inspiring creativity and imagination in fans across the world.

Fans’ love for the Daleks

One of the main reasons why the Daleks have become such an iconic element of Doctor Who is due to the immense love that fans have for them. Dalek enthusiasts come in all shapes and sizes, from casual viewers to dedicated fanatics, and their passion for the show is unparalleled.

Dalek collectors

Many fans of Doctor Who have taken their love for the Daleks to the next level by collecting merchandise related to the show. This includes everything from action figures and plush toys to artwork and posters. Some collectors even go as far as to seek out rare and hard-to-find items, such as limited edition Dalek models or vintage comic books featuring the Doctor’s enemies.

Cosplay

Another way that fans express their love for the Daleks is through cosplay. Dressing up as a Dalek or a Doctor Who character is a popular pastime at fan conventions and other events. Some cosplayers even go to great lengths to create highly detailed and accurate costumes, complete with working props and special effects.

Fan fiction and fan art

Finally, many fans of Doctor Who have also expressed their love for the Daleks by creating their own fan fiction and fan art. This includes stories, comics, and other forms of media that feature the Daleks and other elements of the show. Fan art can range from traditional drawings and paintings to digital illustrations and 3D models.

Overall, the love that fans have for the Daleks is a testament to the enduring appeal of Doctor Who. Whether it’s through collecting merchandise, cosplaying, or creating their own content, fans have found countless ways to express their love for the show and its iconic villains.

The different types of Daleks

Classic Daleks

The Classic Daleks are a type of Dalek that first appeared in the 1960s and are the most well-known and iconic Daleks in Doctor Who. They are characterized by their distinctive shape, which is a large, cylindrical casing with a vertical, round dome-shaped top, and a set of armor-like panels covering the exterior.

Classic Daleks are known for their unique method of movement, which is achieved through the use of a mechanical, arm-like appendage that is extended from the top of the casing. This appendage is used to propel the Dalek forward and to maneuver around obstacles.

In terms of weaponry, Classic Daleks are equipped with a “death ray” that is housed in a single arm, and a “wanting machine” that is housed in the dome-shaped top of the casing. The wanting machine is a device that can detect and analyze the thoughts and desires of other beings, and is often used by the Daleks to gather information or to determine whether a being is a potential threat.

Overall, Classic Daleks are known for their distinctive appearance, their unique method of movement, and their advanced technology, which makes them one of the most feared and formidable enemies in the Doctor Who universe.

Imperial Daleks

The Imperial Daleks are one of the most iconic and recognizable types of Daleks in Doctor Who. They are characterized by their sleek, metallic casing, distinctive eye-stalk, and mechanical, monotone voice.

Imperial Daleks are often depicted as the leaders of the Dalek race, and are typically equipped with advanced technology and weaponry. They are highly intelligent and strategic, using their advanced knowledge of science and technology to outsmart their enemies.

Imperial Daleks are also known for their brutal tactics and their willingness to use any means necessary to achieve their goals. They are ruthless and relentless in their pursuit of power and domination, and will stop at nothing to eliminate anyone who stands in their way.

Despite their formidable abilities, Imperial Daleks are not invincible. They are vulnerable to certain types of attacks, such as those that target their weak points or disrupt their power supply. They are also subject to internal conflicts and power struggles, which can weaken their leadership and hinder their effectiveness.

Overall, Imperial Daleks are a major threat to the universe in Doctor Who, and are feared and reviled by many characters in the show. Their combination of intelligence, technology, and ruthlessness make them a formidable enemy for the Doctor and his companions to face.

Special Weapons Daleks

The Special Weapons Daleks are a specific type of Dalek that first appeared in the Doctor Who television series in 1965. They are characterized by their distinctive red, white, and blue color scheme, which is different from the standard Dalek design.

One of the key features of the Special Weapons Daleks is their weapons system, which is located in a dome-shaped protrusion on top of their casing. This weapons system is capable of firing a variety of different types of energy beams, including heat rays, smoke screens, and atomic destruction devices.

Another notable characteristic of the Special Weapons Daleks is their ability to fly. They are equipped with propellers that allow them to hover and move through the air, giving them a distinct advantage in battle.

Overall, the Special Weapons Daleks are a formidable force to be reckoned with, and their unique design and capabilities make them one of the most recognizable and memorable elements of the Doctor Who universe.

Other variations of the Daleks

In addition to the classic bronze Daleks, there are several other variations of the Daleks that have appeared in Doctor Who over the years. These include:

  • Gold Daleks: Gold Daleks are a rarer variant of the Daleks, with a distinctive gold casing instead of the classic bronze. They were first introduced in the 1970s and have since appeared in various Doctor Who stories.
  • Chrome Daleks: Chrome Daleks are another rare variant of the Daleks, with a chrome-plated casing. They were first introduced in the 1960s and have since appeared in a few Doctor Who stories.
  • Bronze Daleks (Travel Machine Variant): The Travel Machine Daleks are a variant of the classic bronze Daleks, with a more streamlined design and a distinctive conical travel machine. They were first introduced in the 1960s and have since appeared in various Doctor Who stories.
  • Dalek Emperor: The Dalek Emperor is a unique variant of the Daleks, with a larger casing and a more ornate design. It is said to be the supreme leader of the Daleks and has only appeared in a few Doctor Who stories.
  • Dalek Time Controller: The Dalek Time Controller is a variant of the Daleks that has the ability to manipulate time. It has only appeared in a few Doctor Who stories.
  • Dalek Drone: The Dalek Drone is a variant of the Daleks that is smaller and more agile than the classic bronze Daleks. It has only appeared in a few Doctor Who stories.

Each of these variations of the Daleks has its own unique characteristics and abilities, making them formidable foes for the Doctor and his companions.

How have the Daleks evolved over time?

Changes in design and appearance

Over the course of Doctor Who’s long history, the Daleks have undergone numerous changes in their design and appearance. These changes have often reflected the shifting creative vision of the show’s writers and production team, as well as the advances in technology that have allowed for more elaborate and detailed visual effects.

One of the earliest and most significant changes in Dalek design came in the early 1960s, when the show’s creator, Sydney Newman, tasked designer Raymond Cusick with creating a new, more terrifying alien race to replace the then-current villains, the Thals. Cusick’s design, which incorporated a mixture of shapes and textures inspired by everything from Japanese art to 1950s sci-fi films, has become one of the most iconic images in science fiction.

Since then, the Daleks have undergone numerous modifications and updates, including changes to their armor plating, weapons, and propulsion systems. Some of the most notable design changes have included the addition of a dome-shaped casing to protect the Dalek’s internal mechanisms, the introduction of a new type of Dalek known as the “Invasion of the Daleks” Dalek, and the development of more advanced weapons systems such as the “Dalek Gun” and the “Dalek Proton Cannon.”

In recent years, the Daleks have continued to evolve, with the introduction of new models and designs that reflect the show’s more modern aesthetic. For example, the “Asylum of the Daleks” Dalek, introduced in the seventh series of Doctor Who, featured a sleeker, more streamlined design, while the “Iron Dalek” of the same season boasted a new type of armor that was almost completely impervious to attack.

Overall, the changes in Dalek design and appearance over the years have helped to keep the show fresh and exciting, while also allowing the writers to explore new themes and ideas. Whether through subtle modifications or more dramatic overhauls, the Daleks have remained one of the most enduring and iconic elements of Doctor Who, and continue to captivate audiences around the world.

Character development

Over the course of Doctor Who’s history, the Daleks have undergone significant character development. Their original design, as envisioned by writer Terry Nation, was as a race of genetically engineered beings encased in armored shells, with a single eye stalk and a plunger-like weapon. However, as the show has progressed, the Daleks have evolved to incorporate new abilities and features.

One notable example of this evolution is the development of the Dalek “virus” concept. In the early 2000s, the show introduced the idea that Daleks could be infected by a “virus” that would cause them to malfunction and become more vulnerable. This concept was later expanded upon, with the introduction of the “Dalek factor” in the 2010s, which implied that Daleks could be affected by emotions and experiences, causing them to develop unique personalities and abilities.

Another aspect of the Daleks’ character development has been their increasingly complex social structures. In the early days of the show, the Daleks were depicted as a monolithic, authoritarian race with a single leader. However, later episodes have revealed the existence of factions and rivalries within the Dalek ranks, suggesting a more complex and dynamic society.

Overall, the Daleks’ character development has allowed them to remain a compelling and evolving threat throughout the series, ensuring their enduring popularity with Doctor Who fans.

Storylines involving the Daleks

Throughout the series, the Daleks have appeared in numerous storylines, each contributing to their evolution and development as villains. Here are some of the most notable storylines involving the Daleks:

The Power of the Daleks (1966)

In this six-part serial, the Daleks were first introduced to the Doctor Who universe. The story revolves around the Daleks’ attempt to take over Earth by manipulating its power systems. This serial marks the first appearance of the Dalek’s iconic catchphrase, “Exterminate!”

Genesis of the Daleks (1975)

This seven-part serial explores the origins of the Daleks, revealing their creators, the Time Lords of Gallifrey, and their attempts to stop them. This storyline provides insight into the Daleks’ motivations and introduces the concept of the “Dalek War.”

Remembrance of the Daleks (1988)

In this three-part serial, the Doctor and his companions encounter the Daleks on the planet Skaro, where they are embroiled in a conflict with another alien race. This storyline showcases the Daleks’ tactical ingenuity and their ability to manipulate other beings for their own purposes.

The Parting of the Ways (2005)

This two-part season finale of the 2005 series features the Daleks’ first appearance in the rebooted Doctor Who. They invade Earth and attempt to convert it into a reality bomb, with the ultimate goal of destroying all other realities. This storyline demonstrates the Daleks’ advanced technology and their ability to manipulate time and space.

Asylum of the Daleks (2012)

In this two-part serial, the Doctor and his companions are trapped in a Dalek asylum, where they must pass a series of tests to prove their humanity. This storyline reveals the existence of different Dalek factions and the internal conflicts that can arise within their ranks.

The Magician’s Apprentice/The Witch’s Familiar (2015)

In these two-part episodes, the Doctor encounters a Dalek that has been transformed into a plaything by a powerful sorceress. This storyline explores the Daleks’ vulnerability and their capacity for change, as the Dalek begins to question its own existence and its loyalty to the Dalek Empire.

These are just a few examples of the many storylines involving the Daleks throughout Doctor Who’s history. Each of these narratives has contributed to the development of the Daleks as complex and formidable villains, making them one of the most enduring and beloved elements of the series.

Where can I learn more about the Daleks?

Books and literature

  • “Doctor Who: The Dalek Handbook” by Scott Matthewman
    • A comprehensive guide to the Daleks, including their history, characters, and appearances in the Doctor Who series.
    • Provides insights into the Daleks’ motivations, technology, and society.
    • Includes interviews with actors and production crew who have worked on the show.
  • “Dalek I: The Story of a Time Lord” by Robert Shearman
    • A novel that explores the origins of the Daleks and their relationship with the Doctor.
    • Offers a unique perspective on the Daleks’ perspective and motivations.
    • Features appearances by popular Doctor Who characters, including the Doctor and Rose Tyler.
  • “Doctor Who: The Dalek Book” by Steve Tribe
    • A children’s book that introduces the Daleks and their world to a younger audience.
    • Features illustrations and simple text that explain the Daleks’ appearance, abilities, and history.
    • Includes a fold-out Dalek model that children can assemble and play with.
  • “The Dalek Invasion of Earth” by Terry Nation
    • A novelization of the classic Doctor Who serial “The Dalek Invasion of Earth,” which introduces the Daleks to the series.
    • Follows the Doctor and his companions as they battle the Daleks to save Earth from invasion.
      * “Doctor Who: The Dalek Comics” by various authors
    • A series of comic books that feature the Daleks and their adventures in the Doctor Who universe.
    • Includes stories that explore the Daleks’ past and future, as well as their interactions with other Doctor Who characters.
    • Features illustrations and storytelling that are accessible to both children and adults.

Online resources

There are several online resources available for fans of Doctor Who who want to learn more about the Daleks. Here are a few options:

  • The official Doctor Who website has a section dedicated to the Daleks, where you can find information about their history, abilities, and appearances in the show.
  • The Doctor Who Wiki is a comprehensive online encyclopedia that covers all aspects of the show, including the Daleks. You can find detailed information about their origins, evolution, and cultural impact.
  • The BBC’s Doctor Who YouTube channel has several videos that focus on the Daleks, including behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with actors and crew members.
  • Reddit has several active communities dedicated to Doctor Who, including /r/doctorwho, which has a section for discussing the Daleks. You can find fan theories, analysis, and discussion about the Daleks and their role in the show.
  • There are also several podcasts dedicated to Doctor Who, such as the Verity! podcast, which often discusses the Daleks and their place in the show’s history.

These are just a few examples of the many online resources available for fans of the Daleks. Whether you’re looking for in-depth analysis or just want to connect with other fans, there’s plenty of information and community available online.

Conventions and events

Fans of Doctor Who can attend conventions and events to learn more about the Daleks. These gatherings often feature panels and discussions on the show, as well as appearances by actors and creators. Here are some ways to connect with other fans and deepen your knowledge of the Daleks:

  • Doctor Who conventions: These events are organized by fans for fans, and often feature guests from the show, such as actors who have played Daleks or worked on the production team. They can provide a unique opportunity to meet other fans and learn more about the show’s history and behind-the-scenes aspects.
  • Comic-cons: Larger comic-cons, such as San Diego Comic-Con or New York Comic-Con, often feature Doctor Who panels and exhibits. These events can be a great way to connect with other fans and learn about the latest developments in the show.
  • Fan clubs and organizations: Joining a fan club or organization can provide access to exclusive events, such as screenings and meet-and-greets with actors, as well as opportunities to connect with other fans online or in person.
  • Online communities: There are many online communities dedicated to Doctor Who, such as forums, social media groups, and fan sites. These can be a great resource for learning more about the show and connecting with other fans.

Fan communities

There are many fan communities dedicated to Doctor Who and the Daleks. These communities are a great resource for fans who want to learn more about the show and its characters.

Some popular fan communities include:

  • Doctor Who Online: This is one of the largest Doctor Who fan communities, with a forum where fans can discuss the show and share their knowledge.
  • Gallifrey Base: This is a fan-run website that has been around since 1999. It has a forum, chat room, and a wealth of information about Doctor Who.
  • Tardisboards: This is another popular Doctor Who forum where fans can discuss the show, share their fan fiction, and more.

These communities are a great place to find information about the Daleks, as well as to connect with other fans who share your passion for the show. Many fans also use these communities to share their own fan fiction and other creative works inspired by Doctor Who.

FAQs

1. What are the Daleks in Doctor Who?

The Daleks are a fictional alien race in the British science fiction television series Doctor Who. They are one of the longest-running and most iconic villains in the show’s history, first appearing in 1963. The Daleks are mutants from the planet Skaro who have mechanical bodies and travel in spaceships shaped like pepper pots. They are known for their distinctive voices, which are a result of their mechanical exoskeletons, and their catchphrase “Exterminate!”

2. Where do the Daleks come from?

The Daleks originate from the planet Skaro, which was devastated by a war between two factions, the Thals and the Kaleds. The surviving Kaleds, who were unable to move due to a virus, used robotic shells to protect themselves and created the Dalek race. Over time, the Daleks developed their own culture and became a powerful force in the universe, obsessed with conquering other planets and exterminating all who oppose them.

3. What is the Dalek’s most famous catchphrase?

The Daleks’ most famous catchphrase is “Exterminate!” They use this phrase to indicate their intention to kill anyone who opposes them or gets in their way. This catchphrase has become synonymous with the Daleks and is often used in popular culture to represent the concept of a ruthless, destructive force.

4. What is the Dalek’s iconic design inspired by?

The Dalek’s iconic design is inspired by a 1950s British utility van, known as a “carrier.” The creator of the Daleks, Terry Nation, saw a picture of a carrier and thought it would make a good shape for a spacecraft. The distinctive shape, with its flashing lights and mechanical arms, has become a symbol of the Daleks and is instantly recognizable to fans of Doctor Who.

5. How do the Daleks move and communicate?

The Daleks move using their mechanical arms, which are attached to their mechanical bodies. They also have a set of lights on top of their casing that can change color to indicate different emotions or states. The Daleks communicate with each other using a unique language that consists of whistles and clicks. This language is based on Welsh, which was the language of Terry Nation, the creator of the Daleks.

6. What is the relationship between the Daleks and the Doctor in Doctor Who?

The Daleks are one of the Doctor’s most frequent adversaries in Doctor Who. The Doctor is a Time Lord who travels through time and space, and he has a long-standing feud with the Daleks. The Doctor is determined to stop the Daleks from conquering the universe and destroying all life, and he often puts his own life at risk to do so. Despite this, the Daleks see the Doctor as their greatest enemy and are obsessed with exterminating him.

Doctor Who: The Complete Story of ‘The Daleks’

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