war of the worlds characters

Who is the narrator in The War of the Worlds?

The narrator is a recognized writer on philosophical themes who provides insight into the Martians' invasion of Britain.

What role does the artilleryman play in the story?

The artilleryman is a military character whose weapon is used in defense against the Martians and who represents duality in strength and fragility.

How does the curate respond to the Martian invasion?

The curate is profoundly affected, troubled by the attacks, and seeks a religious explanation for the events.

What is the relationship between the narrator and his brother?

The narrator's brother is a London-based medical student who represents a Londoner's perspective on the Martians' arrival.

What type of character is the narrator’s wife?

The narrator's wife is an unnamed archetype of a Victorian wife and serves as a foil to the narrator.

Who is Ogilvy in The War of the Worlds?

Ogilvy is a well-known astronomer who provides exposition about Mars before the Martian attack.

What does the artilleryman express about the human race?

The artilleryman fears that the human race has given up too easily and lacks spirit.

What happens to the curate by the end of the novel?

The curate's reckless behavior leads to him being killed by a Martian after the narrator isolates himself from him.

How does the narrator feel about his emotions during the Martian invasion?

The narrator feels a sense of detachment from his emotions as he witnesses the invasion.

What warning does the narrator believe the Martians represent?

The narrator believes the Martians serve as a warning for humanity to be prepared for future invasions.

How does the narrator describe his responsibility towards others?

The narrator feels a great responsibility to support others, particularly his wife and brother.

What role does Henderson play in the story?

Henderson is a journalist who reports on the findings related to the Martian cylinder and is killed for his rash actions.

What is the innkeeper's role in the story?

The innkeeper lends his horse and cart to the narrator but is later killed, highlighting the fate of those who act kindly.

How does the narrator’s brother try to respond to the Martian threat?

The narrator’s brother attempts to impulsively reach the narrator but fails due to disruptions caused by the invasion.

What character trait does the narrator find irritating in the curate?

The narrator finds the curate's selfish despair and childish behavior irritating.

What does the narrator's wife symbolize in the novel?

The narrator's wife symbolizes the restoration of order and love at the conclusion of the novel.

What event leads to Ogilvy's death?

Ogilvy is incinerated by a Martian's Heat-Ray while he is one of the first to encounter the Martians.

What contributes to the artilleryman's dual character of strength and fragility?

The artilleryman's strong military presence contrasts with his emotional breakdown after a horrific encounter.

What major theme is reflected through the characters in The War of the Worlds?

H.G. Wells uses characters to symbolize broader societal issues and the collective human experience.

What does the artilleryman say about survival?

He expresses a grim determination to live and keep independent despite the odds.

How does the narrator's detachment affect his perspective?

It allows him to observe events more rationally but also makes him feel disconnected from the trauma.

What does the curator symbolize in the context of organized religion?

The curator represents the struggle of faith and the challenge posed by the Martian invasion on religious beliefs.

What irony surrounds Ogilvy's character?

Despite being knowledgeable about space and dismissing life on Mars, he becomes an early victim of the Martians.

How does the narrator show his devotion to his wife throughout the novel?

His determination to find her after being separated drives much of the plot and highlight his dedication.

What action leads to the narrator isolating himself from the curate?

The narrator isolates himself due to the curate's selfishness and to preserve his own sanity.

What are the Elphinstone sisters' fate in the story?

They are rescued by the narrator's brother and escape to safety in another country.

What motivates the characters in their reactions to the Martian invasion?

Survival, fear, and moral responsibility drive the characters' actions during the invasion.

What does the term 'foil' refer to in the context of the narrator’s wife?

A foil is a character who contrasts with another character, in this case highlighting the narrator's traits.

How does Wells characterize the narrator in relation to other characters?

The narrator is depicted as considerate and thoughtful, contrasting with the more emotionally driven curate.

What does the narrator's comment on the Martians signify about human nature?

It suggests a warning about humanity's vulnerability and the potential for future threats.

What narrative function does Ogilvy serve in the story?

Ogilvy provides background information and commentary on the events leading up to the Martian invasion.

How does the artilleryman's character evolve throughout the novel?

The artilleryman moves from a fearful, emotional state to a more resilient and determined character.

What does the narrator observe about the general reaction of the human race to the Martian threat?

He notes a lack of spirit and a tendency to easily relent in the face of danger.

In what way does the curate challenge the narrator's perspective?

The curate's reliance on faith contrasts with the narrator's rational and philosophical outlook.

What does the narrator mean when he says the Martians' destruction is only a reprieve?

He implies that humanity must remain vigilant as future threats may arise, not just focusing on current survival.

What narrative technique does Wells use through the characterizations in The War of the Worlds?

Wells uses symbolic characterization to express broader societal concerns and human nature.

What should be noted about the character of the narrator’s brother regarding his awareness of danger?

He appears to be oblivious to the imminent danger posed by the Martians, highlighting human denial in crisis.