The social commentary in The War of the Worlds is profound, yet it continues to captivate countless readers. The depiction of civilization's collapse in a valiant struggle against an unstoppable enemy is both grand and moving. Science fiction authors have long used their imaginative works to reflect on society, but few spark the imagination as Wells does. Discussion groups might explore the novel's social commentary and delve into the underlying ideas of the story. Another perspective could be its apocalyptic vision, which portrays our civilization crumbling into ruins, with both the good and the bad being equally destroyed. What makes this vision so compelling?

1. How effectively is the novel's climax developed? Do you believe that the highly advanced Martians would overlook something as fundamental as disease? Is the climax manipulated too much to align with Wells's social commentary (when something is gained, something is lost) at the expense of a coherent plot?

2. What similarities exist between the events in The War of the Worlds and the history of colonial empires? Don't limit yourself to the expansion of Western civilization; consider parallels in the histories of Eastern empires, as well as the violent invasions of the Middle East and Europe by the Huns, Mongols, and others. What general statements about humanity is Wells making with his tale of conquest and total defeat?

3. Some characters have names that reflect their professions. Identify these characters and determine if Wells is making any comments about the types of people they represent.

4. Some readers find the Curate particularly irritating. Is Wells using him as an allegorical figure to suggest that religion is irrelevant?

5. The War of the Worlds draws from both popular and serious science of its time. It would be interesting to discover what people in 1898 believed about Mars and how Wells incorporated contemporary scientific thinking into his novel. For instance, some scientists genuinely thought there were canals on Mars, an idea that is no longer taken seriously.

6. Scientific views have evolved significantly since Wells wrote The War of the Worlds. Using this novel as an example, how reliant are science fiction writers on the science of their era? How does evolving scientific knowledge affect how audiences perceive a science fiction novel?

7. Should humanity seek revenge on Mars?

8. With the entire Earth to choose from, why would the Martians target England? Consider this question from the perspective of the 1890s.

9. Now that the Martian invasion has failed, what should be humanity's first several actions?

10. Wells did not appreciate the radio version of The War of the Worlds directed by Orson Welles. How does the radio play differ from the novel? What aspects might have particularly annoyed Wells?

Kirk H. Beelz