What is the plot?

The episode begins with the Doctor and Clara Oswald arriving in a mysterious, hidden part of London known as the Trap Street. They are drawn there by a distress signal from a friend, who turns out to be a woman named Ashildr, also known as Me. The Doctor is initially excited to see her again, but Clara is more cautious, sensing something is off. They walk through the street, which is filled with various alien beings and humans living in secrecy, hidden from the rest of the world.

As they explore, they encounter a group of people who are wary of the Doctor. Clara is intrigued by the atmosphere and the people, but the Doctor is more focused on finding Ashildr. They soon discover that Ashildr is the one who has been sending the distress signal. When they find her, she explains that she has been protecting the street and its inhabitants from a dangerous creature known as the Raven, which is a manifestation of death that hunts down those who have been marked.

The Doctor learns that the Raven is targeting a young girl named Maisie, who is in danger because of a deal made by Ashildr. Ashildr reveals that she has been using her immortality to help people, but her actions have unintended consequences. The Doctor is frustrated with Ashildr's choices, feeling that she has become too reckless with her power. Clara, however, sympathizes with Ashildr and tries to understand her motivations.

As the situation escalates, the Doctor devises a plan to confront the Raven and save Maisie. He instructs Clara to stay back, but she insists on helping. They set a trap for the Raven, using a device that Ashildr has created. The plan involves Clara taking on the role of bait, which the Doctor reluctantly agrees to. Clara's determination to protect those she cares about drives her to take this risk, despite the Doctor's warnings.

The trap is set, and the Raven appears, a dark, shadowy figure that embodies fear and death. Clara bravely confronts the creature, but in a shocking twist, she is marked by the Raven. The Doctor realizes that Clara is in grave danger and rushes to save her, but it is too late. The Raven claims Clara's life, and she is left in a state of shock and disbelief.

In the aftermath, the Doctor is devastated by Clara's death. He confronts Ashildr, blaming her for the events that led to Clara's fate. Ashildr tries to explain her actions, but the Doctor is consumed by grief and anger. He vows to find a way to bring Clara back, even if it means defying the laws of time and space.

The episode concludes with the Doctor standing alone, grappling with the loss of Clara. He is determined to face the consequences of his actions and the choices made by those around him. The emotional weight of the episode lingers as the Doctor prepares for the challenges ahead, haunted by the memory of Clara and the impact of their adventures together.

What is the ending?

In the ending of "Face the Raven," Clara Oswald is fatally wounded after being tricked into a trap by Ashildr, who has become the immortal Mayor of London. The Doctor arrives too late to save her, and Clara dies in his arms. In a moment of grief and anger, the Doctor vows to find a way to make Ashildr pay for her actions. The episode concludes with the Doctor devastated, holding Clara's lifeless body, as he grapples with the loss of his companion.


As the episode reaches its climax, the scene unfolds in the shadowy streets of a hidden London, where the Doctor and Clara Oswald have been lured into a trap. Clara, unaware of the true danger, is confronted by Ashildr, who has taken on the role of the Mayor and is now a powerful figure in this secretive world. The atmosphere is thick with tension, as the Doctor, played by Peter Capaldi, senses something is amiss but struggles to pinpoint the threat.

In a moment of betrayal, Ashildr reveals that Clara has been marked with a death sentence, a consequence of her decision to take on the challenge of facing the raven. The Doctor's heart races as he realizes the gravity of the situation. He rushes to Clara, desperately trying to save her, but the clock is ticking. Clara, filled with a mix of bravery and fear, stands her ground, determined to face her fate head-on.

As the raven swoops down, its dark feathers glistening ominously, Clara is struck. The moment is heart-wrenching; she collapses to the ground, and the Doctor's world shatters around him. He kneels beside her, his face a mask of anguish as he cradles her in his arms. Clara's eyes, once filled with life and adventure, now reflect the finality of death. She whispers her last words, a poignant farewell that echoes in the silence of the night.

The Doctor, overwhelmed by grief and rage, vows to seek vengeance against Ashildr. His emotional state is raw and palpable, a mix of sorrow for the loss of Clara and fury at the betrayal that led to her demise. The camera lingers on his face, capturing the depth of his pain and the weight of his promise. Clara's fate is sealed; she has sacrificed herself, and the Doctor is left to grapple with the consequences of their choices.

As the episode draws to a close, the Doctor stands alone, the city around him a stark reminder of his failure to protect Clara. The emotional impact of her death reverberates through him, setting the stage for his quest for justice. The final scene leaves viewers with a haunting image of the Doctor, a man who has lost a part of himself, determined to confront the darkness that has taken his beloved companion.

Is there a post-credit scene?

In "Face the Raven," there is no post-credit scene. The episode concludes with a poignant and emotional ending, focusing on the aftermath of the events that transpired. The story wraps up with the Doctor's grief and the impact of the choices made throughout the episode, particularly regarding the fate of Clara Oswald. The absence of a post-credit scene allows the weight of the narrative to linger, emphasizing the themes of loss and sacrifice that are central to the episode.

What is the significance of the trap street in 'Face the Raven'?

The trap street is a hidden location in London, specifically designed to protect aliens and outcasts from the human world. It serves as a sanctuary where they can live without fear of persecution. The Doctor and Clara discover this street, which is concealed from normal maps, highlighting the theme of hidden worlds and the lengths to which beings will go to find safety.

How does Clara Oswald's character evolve in this episode?

In 'Face the Raven', Clara shows significant growth as she takes on a more proactive role. She is determined to protect her friends and confronts the dangers of the trap street head-on. Her bravery is evident when she decides to face the consequences of her actions, ultimately leading to her tragic fate. This evolution reflects her transition from a companion to a more independent character who is willing to make sacrifices.

What role does Ashildr play in the events of 'Face the Raven'?

Ashildr, also known as Me, plays a pivotal role as both an ally and antagonist in 'Face the Raven'. She has become the caretaker of the trap street and is responsible for the safety of its inhabitants. However, her actions are driven by a desire for control and power, leading her to manipulate Clara into a dangerous situation. Ashildr's complex motivations reveal her struggle with immortality and the consequences of her choices.

What is the significance of the raven in the episode?

The raven in 'Face the Raven' symbolizes death and the inevitability of fate. It serves as a harbinger of doom for Clara, representing the consequences of her decisions. The raven's presence is tied to the central conflict of the episode, as it is revealed to be a creature that collects souls, further emphasizing the themes of sacrifice and the cost of one's actions.

How does the Doctor react to Clara's fate in 'Face the Raven'?

The Doctor's reaction to Clara's fate is one of profound grief and anger. He is initially unaware of the full extent of the danger Clara has put herself in, but when he learns the truth, his emotional turmoil is palpable. The Doctor feels a deep sense of responsibility for Clara's choices and is devastated by the loss, showcasing his vulnerability and the weight of his role as a protector.

Is this family friendly?

"Face the Raven" from Doctor Who, Series 9, Episode 10, contains several elements that may be considered objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers. Here are some aspects to be aware of:

  1. Death and Sacrifice: The episode deals with themes of mortality, including the concept of a character facing death and the emotional weight of sacrifice.

  2. Dark Atmosphere: The setting of the episode is a hidden, mysterious part of London, which has a dark and eerie tone that may be unsettling for younger viewers.

  3. Violence: There are scenes that depict violence, including the threat of harm to characters, which may be distressing.

  4. Emotional Distress: Characters experience significant emotional turmoil, including fear, betrayal, and grief, which could be intense for sensitive viewers.

  5. Supernatural Elements: The presence of a supernatural being and the concept of a curse may be frightening for some children.

These elements contribute to a narrative that, while engaging and thought-provoking, may not be suitable for all audiences, particularly younger children or those who are sensitive to themes of death and emotional distress.