1. Why are the characters given abstract names like "the Narrator" and "the Curate"? Are these names symbolic? What could be the purpose of using symbolic names?

2. In many tales about extraterrestrial invaders, the aliens are so advanced that humans are powerless against them. Wells, however, allows his characters to destroy some Martian war-machines. Why does he make this choice?

3. Is the conclusion of the book, where the Martians are eliminated by microbes and pursued by packs of dogs, disappointing? Can you think of a more fitting ending?

4. If modern scientists observed flashes of incandescent gas on Mars' surface, how do you think they would respond? How would the national government react? How would the military react? Would any of these groups react differently than they do in The War of the Worlds?

5. Suppose scientists were certain that space vehicles from Mars were en route to Earth. How do you think people would respond to this news?

6. The War of the Worlds was published in 1898, and at that time, Britain's military technology—then the world's leading military force—seems outdated compared to today's weapons. How does this influence your enjoyment of the novel? If you still enjoyed reading The War of the Worlds, what aspects of the book make it worthwhile despite the outdated technology?

7. After the Martians have decimated the resistance and taken control of the countryside, how do people react to the collapse of their civilization? Do you find Wells's depiction of the survivors believable? How might people react after a disaster left them vulnerable to their enemies?