abstract illustration of concentric circles punctuated by lines emanating from a clock in the middle of the drawing

The Time Machine

by H. G. Wells

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In groups, create a timeline illustrating the evolution of human beings, starting with prosimians and concluding with the large crab-like creatures encountered by the Time Traveller towards the end of his journey. Make sure to include the Morlocks and the Eloi. Present your timeline to the class and discuss how your depiction of human evolution compares with those of other groups.

Imagine the Time Traveller returns after three years. Write the thirteenth chapter, speculating on the type of evidence he provides to the narrator about his travels.

Wells believed that humanity was destined to self-destruct. In class, discuss the plausibility of Wells's belief. How might what he predicted over a century ago manifest in your own life or in the near future?

In The Time Machine, humanity "evolved" into the Morlocks and the Eloi, each symbolizing a different class. In groups, discuss other potential ways humanity might evolve in the future and share your speculations with the class.

Write a short essay identifying a specific moment in the past to which you would like to return, and provide reasons for your choice.

Mark Twain's 1889 novel A Connecticut Yankee at King Arthur's Court was the first to explore time travel. However, the protagonist of that novel lacks control over his time journeys. Compare Wells's novel with Twain's, focusing on how each author uses time travel to critique popular thinking and public policies. Discuss your comparisons in class.

Wells's novel has remained popular for over a century since its initial publication. What do you think accounts for its enduring popularity? Be specific in your responses and discuss as a class.

The Morlocks symbolize the degeneration of the working class in Wells's era. Many modern and contemporary portrayals of the working class in film and literature depict them as heroic, yet Wells's portrayal is more negative. Write a short essay explaining this choice.

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