The Master and the Doctor: Why the Doctor Never Kills the Master

The hesitation of the Doctor to terminate the Master's life in Doctor Who is a deep-rooted narrative choice that stems from moral codes, complex relationships, and a fear of becoming the very villain they seek to conquer. This decision not only enriches the series but also emphasizes essential themes of compassion, morality, and redemption.

Moral Code

The Doctor adheres to a strict moral code that values life, even that of his enemies. His belief in redemption over destruction reflects a deep commitment to non-violence. For instance, the Master has been a constant throughout the series, presenting numerous opportunities for the Doctor to end his reign of chaos, yet he chooses to spare the Master whenever possible. This aligns with the Doctor's core principles of peaceful resolution.

Complex Relationship

The Doctor and the Master share a complicated and often conflicted relationship. Initially depicted as a deep friendship, their relationship has evolved into a fierce rivalry. The Doctor and the Master's bond includes elements of love, betrayal, and a twisted sense of camaraderie. These dynamics make it difficult for the Doctor to resort to killing the Master. The Doctor holds onto the hope that the Master can change, a belief that keeps him from resorting to violence.

Fear of Becoming the Enemy

The Doctor fears that killing the Master would blur the lines between good and evil. In essence, it would make the Doctor become what he despises. This fear of losing his moral compass is a recurring theme in the series, underscoring the Doctor's commitment to his principles. This idea is further reinforced by the comparison to other series, such as the Batman and the Joker or Sherlock and Moriarty.

Potential for Redemption

The belief that the Master can change is a driving force for the Doctor. This belief shapes the Doctor's actions, as he repeatedly reaches out to the Master instead of resorting to violence. The Master's character arc—hopefully towards redemption—adds depth and nuance to the series. Without this potential for change, the Master's role as a persistent and challenging antagonist would significantly diminish, impacting the ongoing narrative and conflict of the series.

Narrative Tension and Antagonistic Role

From a storytelling perspective, the Master serves as a significant antagonist who challenges the Doctor in unique ways. The Master is a fundamental component of the series, and his removal would eliminate a key source of conflict and drama. Renowned fictional series, such as Batman and Sherlock Holmes, rely on their primary antagonists to drive their narratives. Removing the Master would jeopardize this dynamic and likely result in a less compelling storyline.

In conclusion, the Doctor's reluctance to kill the Master is a strategic choice that enhances the series. It highlights the Doctor's core values, enriches the Master's character development, and ensures continued narrative tension. This decision not only satisfies the moral compass of the Doctor but also maintains the integrity and entertainment value of the series, making it a cornerstone of Doctor Who's enduring appeal.