Doctor Who Review: The Witch’s Familiar – How 7 Characters Reveal Their Relationship Status

3. Child Davros

 Every child is a big ball of potential energy. What that child becomes depends on many things. Nature and nurture play their parts but there is also personal choice. Child Davros is already corrupted by the things he has seen and experienced. He is a child of war and that environment shapes his psyche. Yet he still retains choice. The path he follows is determined by his own decisions, not his parents, his friends, his enemies or the Doctor. The responsibility for his actions is his alone.

The Doctor takes Davros’ hand knowing where that child’s steps are leading him. He knows he can’t prevent it. The only thing he can do is teach this troubled boy a modicum of mercy. The only way to do that is through the Doctor’s own actions. The Doctor chooses the least Machiavellian path. He does not focus on the outcome but instead attempts to influence the journey in a positive way. He cannot change Davros but for a brief time he can walk beside him.