"The Time Machine" and Socialism

Paper Summary:

The paper discusses how H.G. Wells' "The Time Machine" is more interesting for its social and intellectual commentary than the idea of time travel in science fiction. The paper describes the Eloi, the peaceful, degenerate people of the future England and shows how Wells conveys his objections to the main ideas of socialism and Utopianism. The paper also explains Wells' belief that instead of creating that perfect society without class conflicts, it is better to work to correct the injustices of capitalism and the large gaps between classes.

Outline:
Introduction
The Block Theory and Time
Wells's Rejection of Utopian Ideas
Concluding Remarks

From the Paper:

"Herbert George Wells (1866-1946) remains famous for his great novella, The Time Machine, often mentioned as an important work of science fiction for how it inspired other efforts of science fiction. People may remember this novella for its idea of time travel that Wells was the first to employ in fiction, a story appearing in serial form in New Review in 1894 and 1895, then published in book form by Heinemann in London in 1895. However, The Time Machine seems more important for its indication of what Wells saw in several ideas of his day, beyond matters of science fiction and the Block theory of the universe on which the idea of traveling forwards in time implies. If studying a little of the late 19th century in Britain and the ideals debated by the educated classes, one reads The Time Machine with an appreciation of much that the author believed was incorrect about then important ideas of socialism."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Wells, H.G. (1895). The Time Machine. London: G. Heinemann.

More papers on "The Time Machine" and Socialism:

• Analytical Essay # 134822 : "H.G. Wells' "The Time Machine"
• Essay # 137908 : "Unionism and Socialism"
• Essay # 137845 : "Father and Daughter" In Hard Times: An Analysis"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: