H. G. Wells

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At the end of the Victorian period, England had some rather stuffy notions about humanity and social behavior. They were dealing with the weakening and collapse of their world power (as America gains foothold). Fear from outsiders and strangers are evident in latter Victorian literature. War of the Worlds & Dracula both exemplify this idea.

Wells' intention in The Invisible Man was to experiment with the limits to which a person might go if he/she were released from the bonds of social restriction. It is an ethical book, stressing ethical questions. Will science corrupt us? What does society do to ensure safety for its members? How does the outsider to a community cause trouble with the group?

Wells attended the Normal School of Science in London where he gained a romantic conception of science, which is subsequently reflected in his writing. His books are not so much "true" or "hard science" but speculative ("What if...?") The Time Machine, The War of the Worlds, and The Invisible Man were all written in the style of what was called "scientific romance" as the term "science fiction" was not invented until 30 years later. Wells is considered the "father of science fiction" and has had a great influence on that genre.

H.G. Wells biographical information: please read.

H.G. Wells documentary

HOMEWORK: Please read The Invisible Man and War of the Worlds for Wednesday (test will be Wednesday).

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