Why do Cybermen have tears? This question, often pondered by fans of the popular British science fiction series Doctor Who, delves into the complex and intriguing nature of the Cybermen, one of the series’ most iconic and fearsome adversaries. Known for their cold, emotionless demeanor, the Cybermen’s sudden display of tears raises questions about their humanity, their transformation, and the very essence of what it means to be human.
The Cybermen, originally created by writer Gerry Davis in 1966, are humanoids who have undergone a radical transformation, replacing their organic bodies with metallic ones to gain enhanced strength, intelligence, and longevity. This transformation is often depicted as a means of escaping death and the suffering of organic life. However, the presence of tears in the Cybermen’s portrayal suggests a deeper layer to their existence, hinting at a lingering connection to their former human selves.
In the series, the Cybermen have been portrayed with tears in various contexts. For instance, in the 2013 episode “The Name of the Doctor,” the Cybermen’s leader, Doctor Who’s companion Clara Oswald, and the Eleventh Doctor confront a Cybermen army that has been infected with a virus that causes them to shed tears. This virus, called “The Cyber-Kill”, is designed to transform the Cybermen into even more powerful beings, but it also triggers a sense of empathy and humanity within them. The tears that the Cybermen shed during this transformation signify their struggle against the cold, emotionless existence they were designed for.
Another notable instance of Cybermen shedding tears occurs in the 2014 episode “The Time of the Doctor,” where the Cybermen’s leader, Doctor Who’s companion Clara Oswald, and the Eleventh Doctor confront the Cybermen’s leader, The Cyber Controller. During their confrontation, the Cyber Controller reveals that he was once a human named John Smith, who was transformed into a Cyberman against his will. This revelation prompts the Cyber Controller to shed tears, indicating his deep regret and longing for his human past.
These instances of Cybermen shedding tears serve to challenge the notion that they are entirely devoid of emotion. Instead, they suggest that the Cybermen, despite their transformation, still retain some vestiges of their human nature. This emotional depth adds complexity to the Cybermen’s character and raises questions about the nature of humanity itself. It raises the question: Can a being that has shed its organic origins and embraced a new, mechanical form still be considered human?
The inclusion of tears in the Cybermen’s portrayal also serves to humanize the series’ villains, making them more relatable and, consequently, more intriguing. It challenges the idea that evil is purely a result of cold, calculating logic, and instead suggests that even the most monstrous beings can have moments of vulnerability and introspection.
In conclusion, the presence of tears in the Cybermen’s portrayal in Doctor Who is a powerful narrative tool that adds depth and complexity to their character. It challenges the notion that they are entirely emotionless, suggesting that even the most radical transformation cannot completely strip away one’s humanity. As fans continue to explore the rich tapestry of Doctor Who’s universe, the question of why the Cybermen have tears remains a fascinating topic, prompting reflection on the nature of humanity and the transformative power of technology.
