The Man Whot Could Work Miracles
The Man Who Could Work Miracles is a classic science fiction novel by H.G. Wells, first published in 1898. The story follows George McWhirter Fotheringay, a mild-mannered clerk who discovers he has the power to perform miracles. He can make things happen just by wishing them to be so. He uses his newfound power to try to make the world a better place, but soon finds himself in over his head. The novel explores themes of power, responsibility, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. It is a thought-provoking exploration of the implications of having the power to change the world. The Man Who Could Work Miracles has been adapted into several films, including a 1936 version starring Roland Young and a 1998 version starring Ralph Fiennes.
By H.G. Wells · First published 1899 · Genre: Fantasy, Science Fiction, Adventure · 6,547 words
First lines
It is doubtful whether the gift was innate. For my own part, I think it came to him suddenly. Indeed, until he was thirty he was a sceptic, and did not believe in miraculous powers. And here, since it is the most convenient place, I must mention that he was a little man, and had eyes of a hot brown, very erect red hair, a moustache with ends that he twisted up, and freckles. His name was George McWhirter Fotheringay--not the sort of name by any means to lead to any expectation of miracles--and he was clerk at Gomshott's. He was greatly addicted to assertive argument. It was while he was asserting the impossibility of miracles that he had his first intimation of his extraordinary powers.
What this Textopian page supports
The Man Whot Could Work Miracles is listed on Textopian as a short story by H.G. Wells, dated 1899 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: H.G. Wells
- Date: 1899 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fantasy, Science Fiction, Adventure, Romance
- Length: 6,547 words
- Structure: 1 section, 145 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Man Whot Could Work Miracles by H.G. Wells
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Man Whot Could Work Miracles?
- How does this short story by H.G. Wells fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Fantasy first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Fantasy — The title of the book implies the use of supernatural elements, which is a common feature of fantasy literature.
- Science Fiction — H.G. Wells is a renowned science fiction author, and this book is likely to contain elements of science fiction.
- Adventure — The protagonist of the book is likely to embark on an exciting journey, which is a common feature of adventure stories.
- Romance — Romance is often featured in H.G. Wells' works, and this book may contain romantic elements.
Tags
fantasy · science fiction · miracles · magic · human potential · philosophy · power · consequences · society · morality · imagination · transformation