Dissecting Dragons: Episode 104: Bones, Boyd and Cottle - The Physician Archetype in Speculative fICTION

Episode 104: Bones, Boyd and Cottle - the Physician Atchetype in Speculative Fiction

 

One of the most enduring character tropes in SFF fiction is that of the healer or doctor. From the many physician of the Star Trek fantasy, to the ubiquitous wise woman or herbalist in fantasy, there is someone who can cure your ills in a spec fic setting - or end your troubles for good. So what aside from the obvious (the fact that we all need a doctor at some point in our lives) makes the character so appealing? And just how have popular versions of the character affected the archetype as a whole? In triage this week - Star Trek, Battlestar Galactica, The Seven Waters Trilogy, Outlander and many more.

 

Title music: Ecstasy by Smiling Cynic