The Doctor has met many a historical figure in his time in the TARDIS - kings, queens, pirates, authors, outlaws, the list goes on. As what a certain university would call a 'history geek', I claimed this article sharpish, and now hope to give my view on which 10 historical figures we should pair with the Doctor next.
10. Jane Austen
The Doctor has met a whole load of authors so far, but Jane Austen hasn't yet been graced with the visit of a big blue box. The sight of a modern companion might be shocking to her, but imagine that Elizabeth Bennett (Pride and Prejudice) was actually based on a time traveller from the 21st century. I can definitely see the Doctor as a Mr Darcy or similar. Most people see the world of Austen as alien to our own, so it's almost like visiting a different planet for the viewers. And the reaction of the pre-Victorians to an alien invasion would certainly be worth watching. On the downside, it would be a lot of work for the costumes department to create costumes for all the extras, but who doesn't love dressing up as a posh Georgian lady (unless you are male, obviously). She is also a well know literary figure, and would be an unlikely ally of the Doctor - it would be a great surprise to see her fighting off the bad guys like the best of them!