Filmer by H.G. Wells (1908)

Name: Filmer
Author: H.G. Wells

The novel is a dystopian tale set in a future where humanity has been ravaged by war and environmental disaster. The story follows the protagonist, who lives in a world where people are divided into castes based on their physical characteristics. The lower castes are forced to live in poverty and squalor, while the upper castes enjoy luxury and privilege. The protagonist is part of the lower castes and begins to question the morality of this system. As the story progresses, the protagonist becomes increasingly disillusioned with the society they live in and starts to rebel against it. They join a group of rebels who are fighting against the oppressive regime that controls their world. The novel explores themes of class struggle, social hierarchy, and the dangers of unchecked technological advancement. It is a commentary on the societal ills of Wells' time and serves as a warning about the potential consequences of humanity's actions.

By H.G. Wells · First published 1908 · Genre: Science Fiction, Drama, Tragedy · 7,647 words

First lines

In truth the mastery of flying was the work of thousands of men -- this man a suggestion and that an experiment, until at last only one vigorous intellectual effort was needed to finish the work. But the inexorable injustice of the popular mind has decided that of all these thousands, one man, and that a man who never flew, should be chosen as the discoverer, just as it has chosen to honour Watt as the discoverer of steam and Stephenson of the steam-engine. And surely of all honoured names none is so grotesquely and tragically honoured as poor Filmer's, the timid, intellectual creature who solved the problem over which the world had hung perplexed and a little fearful for so many generations, the man who pressed the button that has changed peace and warfare and well-nigh every condition of human life and happiness. Never has that recurring wonder of the littleness of the scientific man in the face of the greatness of his science found such an amazing exemplification.

What this Textopian page supports

Filmer is listed on Textopian as a novel by H.G. Wells, dated 1908 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: H.G. Wells
Date: 1908 CE
Language: English
Genres: Science Fiction, Drama, Tragedy, Satire, Historical Fiction
Length: 7,647 words
Structure: 1 section, 93 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Science Fiction — The story revolves around the invention of a flying machine, a common theme in science fiction, exploring technological advancements and their impact on society.
Drama — The narrative delves into the personal struggles and psychological tension of the protagonist, Filmer, as he grapples with the expectations and pressures of his invention.
Tragedy — The story concludes with the tragic suicide of Filmer, highlighting the personal cost of his scientific achievements and the societal pressures he faced.
Satire — The text critiques societal attitudes towards scientific discovery and fame, using irony to highlight the absurdity of public perception and media influence.