The Phoenix in the Tardis (feature)

The Phoenix in the Tardis was the second feature and fourth release exclusively published in The Dr Who Annual 1968 in September 1967 by World Distributors. The feature was notable for giving the first written explanation for the transformation between the First and Second Doctors (although in-text only referred to as "Dr. Who"), poetically comparing the process to the rebirth of the mythical bird, the Phoenix. The feature also contrasted the personalities of the two Doctors.

The audio anthology The Doctor Who Audio Annual, released just over fifty years later on 7 December 2017, included The Phoenix in the Tardis, with it now being read by Anneke Wills, the actor for the Doctor's companion Polly Wright.

Summary
The Phoenix is a fabled mythical bird, believed to be one-of-a-kind, capable of a lifespan of centuries before its eventual combustion and rebirth into renewed youth. Dr. Who shares many similarities with the Phoenix, having himself just gone through a "strange psychological storm", which rejuvenated his form in many ways, resulting in — as almost a side effected caused by him being overwhelmed with this force — an "almost" new personality, making him more in tune with the 20th century, whilst retaining traces of his "pre-change self", in personality and in clothes. However, Dr. Who is more introspective, less willing to confide in his companions as he previously did, although he is now more logical, matter-of-factly, and "devious in his thoughts and actions."

Characters

 * Phoenix
 * Dr. Who

Continuity
to be added