Doctor in the House

Doctor in the House is a British television and film series that first made its debut in the 1950s. The series is based on a set of novels written by Richard Gordon, a pseudonym for Gordon Ostlere (1917–2017), an English surgeon and anaesthetist. The stories revolve around the misadventures of a group of medical students and were initially adapted into a series of films before making the transition to television.

Plot

The narrative of Doctor in the House follows the life of Simon Sparrow, a medical student at the fictional St Swithin's Hospital in London. As Sparrow and his fellow students navigate their way through the challenges of medical school, they encounter a variety of humorous situations and characters. The series is well-regarded for its witty dialogue, engaging storylines, and insight into the medical profession of the era.

Characters

The main characters include:

• Simon Sparrow: The central character, a young and naive medical student.
• Sir Lancelot Spratt: The formidable, yet highly respected, consultant surgeon at St Swithin's Hospital.
• Tony Benskin: A carefree and mischievous fellow student.
• Taffy Evans: Another student, known for his Welsh origin and practical approach to problems.
• Richard Grimsdyke: A laid-back student who prefers a good time over studying.

Adaptations

Films

The series was first adapted into a film, Doctor in the House (1954), which was a major success and led to several sequels, including Doctor at Sea (1955), Doctor at Large (1957), Doctor in Love (1960), and others. These films were notable for their humor, ensemble casts, and the portrayal of the medical profession.

Television

Following the success of the films, Doctor in the House was adapted into a television series that aired from 1969 to 1970. The series retained the humor and charm of the films and introduced new characters and storylines. It was followed by several sequel series, including Doctor at Large, Doctor in Charge, Doctor at Sea, Doctor on the Go, and Doctor Down Under, each exploring different aspects of the characters' lives and careers.

Legacy

Doctor in the House and its sequels have left a lasting impact on British popular culture. The series is remembered for its humor, character-driven narratives, and as a snapshot of medical life in the mid-20th century. It also paved the way for future medical comedies and dramas, influencing the genre in television and film.

See Also

• British comedy
• Medical drama
• Richard Gordon (author)