Here's how the theme manifests in each book:
The Invisible Man:
* The protagonist, Griffin, focuses solely on scientific achievement, ignoring the potential consequences of his invention. He becomes consumed by his invisibility, leading to a tragic downfall due to his inability to control his own powers and his descent into madness.
* The novel critiques the pursuit of scientific knowledge without considering its ethical implications. Griffin's actions highlight the potential dangers of unchecked scientific progress and the need for careful consideration of its ramifications.
The Time Machine:
* The Time Traveller's journey into the future reveals a society that has succumbed to the consequences of its technological advancement. The Eloi are a race of blissful but intellectually stagnant beings, while the Morlocks are a subterranean race who are the remnants of a former workforce.
* The novel explores the potential societal and evolutionary consequences of technological progress. It serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of societal balance and the potential for technological advancement to lead to dystopian outcomes.
In both novels, H.G. Wells uses science fiction as a platform to explore the potential pitfalls of progress. He emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations and the need for responsible advancement. The protagonists' journeys serve as cautionary tales, highlighting the importance of understanding the potential consequences of scientific advancements.