This term paper deals with the question which literary genre does “The Time Machine” by H.G. Wells fits best into. Should it be seen as a dystopian novel or should it be rather classified as a science fictional one and why is it so hard to classify?
As the novel shows characteristics for either genres, the novel has to be analysed accurately. In order do so and find an answer to the main question I will point out and examine relevant passages in the text which will help classifying Wells work. Therefore, it is essential to first of all define both literary genres. These definitions are to include the origin of the genre, main characteristics as well as appropriate “background information”. As already mentioned, the definitions will be followed by an in-depth analysis of significant text passages. Finally, my conclusion is intended to sum up the most important findings and aims to present a classification based on the analysis in the main part.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Defining the literary genres
- Science Fiction
- Utopia/Dystopia
- Analysis
- Conclusion
- Sources
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This term paper aims to determine the literary genre to which "The Time Machine" by H.G. Wells best belongs, exploring whether it is a dystopian novel or a science fictional work. The paper analyzes key passages to understand why classification proves challenging.
- Defining and understanding the characteristics of Science Fiction and Utopia/Dystopia.
- Analyzing key passages in "The Time Machine" to identify elements of both genres.
- Examining the portrayal of the future society in "The Time Machine" and its potential criticisms.
- Exploring the intersection of Science Fiction and Dystopia in "The Time Machine."
- Evaluating the significance of social and scientific themes in the novel.
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
The introduction establishes the main question regarding the genre classification of "The Time Machine" and outlines the paper's approach, emphasizing the need to define the genres before analysis. The next section defines Science Fiction, tracing its origins and highlighting key characteristics. It further discusses the distinction between "hard" and "soft" science fiction. The definition of Utopia/Dystopia follows, contrasting the ideal societies of utopian literature with the negative outcomes portrayed in dystopian works.
The analysis delves into "The Time Machine," acknowledging the overlap of both genres in the novel. It examines the social and political development, highlighting the contrasting lifestyles of the Eloi and Morlocks. The analysis further explores the Time Traveller's reflections on nature and the impact of technological advancement. It also analyzes the depiction of the dystopian future society and its impact on the human condition.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The key terms and concepts explored in the text include: Science Fiction, Utopia, Dystopia, "The Time Machine," H.G. Wells, dystopian society, social development, technological advancement, future society, genre classification, Eloi, Morlocks, time travel, scientific realism, social criticism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "The Time Machine" a dystopian or a science fiction novel?
The novel contains elements of both genres. It is science fictional due to the time travel technology and dystopian because of the negative future society it portrays.
What do the Eloi and Morlocks represent in Wells' work?
They represent the extreme divergence of social classes—the Eloi being the fragile upper class and the Morlocks the subterranean working class.
What is the difference between "hard" and "soft" science fiction?
Hard science fiction focuses on scientific accuracy and technical detail, while soft science fiction explores social sciences like sociology and psychology.
How does H.G. Wells criticize his contemporary society?
Through the Time Traveller’s observations, Wells highlights the potential dangers of unchecked class struggle and the long-term consequences of industrialization.
What is the significance of "scientific realism" in the novel?
Wells uses scientific realism to make the impossible concept of time travel seem plausible to the reader, a hallmark of early science fiction.
- Quote paper
- Kristijan Zrinski (Author), 2012, Time machine: Utopia or Science Fiction, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/229424
