Do Daleks in Doctor Who Have Names?

While Daleks in the original series typically do not have individual names, there are some notable exceptions. This article delves into the naming convention of Daleks, focusing on the unique cases where Daleks have been given names in the Doctor Who universe.

The Circles of Tharro: Named Daleks

The most prominent instance of Daleks with names is the circle of Tharro, introduced in the episode The Parting of the Ways. Four Daleks from the Cult of Skaro had individual monikers:

Dalek Sec Dalek Thay Dalek Jast Dalek Caan

These four Daleks were part of a secret mission to surpass their own limitations and reimagine the concept of being a Dalek. They demonstrated a certain level of creativity and individuality that was not common among their kind.

The Cult of Skaro: Thinkers Outside the Box

The Cult of Skaro is a disparate group of Daleks that have developed a degree of individuality, particularly in terms of their naming and personal mission. They were tasked with thinking beyond the rigid structures of Dalek society. However, this unique development in their society ultimately led to conflict, as they were as rigid and predictable as they were trying to overcome.

Individualized Daleks: Exception to the Rule

Like the Cult of Skaro, Daleks are generally mass-produced and do not possess individual names. Instead, they are identified by their ranking within the hierarchy. However, there are a few notable exceptions that deviate from this norm:

Dalek Sec, Thay, Jast, and Caan (Cult of Skaro): They were given names to signify their roles in the mission. Rusty: Named by the Doctor, this Dalek was often seen as a more "good" Dalek compared to its brethren. Alpha, Beta, and Omega (Evil of the Daleks): Three Daleks were humanized by the Doctor and named to reflect their new, more nuanced identities.

Naming Conventions for Named Daleks

The naming of Daleks is generally tied to their roles rather than their personal identity. For example, Dalek Sec was less about individuality than it was about redefining the Dalek race. Dalek Thay also played a key role in the Cult of Skaro, and Dalek Caan was a significant part of both the battle with the Movellans and the Doctor's struggle to protect them.

Modern Interpretations and Expanded Media

In the early Days of Doctor Who, Daleks were strictly uniform and reproduced in large numbers without the concept of personal names. However, in modern interpretations and expanded media such as novels, audio dramas, and comics, more named Daleks are introduced. Some of these Daleks are given names to fit them into new narratives and roles, though this is not as widespread as in the original series.

For instance, the Dalek Supreme in the show has been used to great effect, often serving as a powerful antagonist. This name signifies not just a rank but the Dalek's position as the supreme authority in its hierarchy.

The Significance of Named Daleks

The naming of Daleks reveals a deeper level of individuality and complexity that goes beyond the typical Dalek character. These names signify a departure from the standard Dalek uniformity and highlight the various roles and missions they undertake, whether in conflict or challenging the very notions of Dalek existence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Daleks in the original series are generally devoid of individual names, there are notable exceptions that introduce a level of complexity and individuality to the Dalek character. Whether in the Cult of Skaro, as single named Daleks, or as those given names in expanded media, these few instances illustrate the depth and diversity of Dalek society and its characters in the expansive world of Doctor Who.