Section 1.1: Character Analysis

Character 1: The Curate

“Be a man!” the protagonist urges the curate, who is paralyzed by fear. “What value does religion hold if it falters in times of crisis?”

— H.G. Wells, The War of the Worlds

The curate is well-versed in religious principles, embodying virtues like selflessness, courage, and hope. Yet, he has only ever leveraged his knowledge for career advancement without genuine application.

> “...the curate was lethargic, unreasonable.”

When disaster strikes in the form of Martians, the curate’s response is one of despair and inaction. His self-centeredness endangers not only himself but also the protagonist, his sole companion in a desolate world. Ultimately, the curate’s demise stems from his hollow devotion. Through his character, Wells illustrates that religious fervor devoid of love can lead to ruin.

Character 2: The Artilleryman

“During moments when people feel compelled to act, the weak often gravitate toward a form of empty piety, displaying a false sense of superiority.”

— the artilleryman, H.G. Wells, The War of the Worlds

The protagonist finds the artilleryman’s perspective more palatable than that of the curate. However, he soon realizes that the artilleryman, while articulate, embodies a different kind of futility. Despite his bold statements, he ultimately achieves little.

> “But I’m not so fond of squealing. I’ve faced death; I’m no ornamental soldier. At the end of the day, death is just death.”

— the artilleryman

Character 3: The Anonymous Protagonist

“[What’s required] is not bravery, but prudence.”

— the protagonist (unnamed by H.G. Wells)

To dismiss the artilleryman as ineffectual is significant for the protagonist, who values rational thought and realism. He believes in evolution but resolves to leave the artilleryman to his vices, choosing instead to venture onward into London.

H.G. Wells depicts the protagonist as a figure of faith, despite his reliance on scientific reasoning and practical solutions. Even after a grim act of self-defense against the curate, the protagonist's faith remains intact. He embodies hope and love, taking decisive actions, such as rationing food while trapped and returning home despite the overwhelming odds.

“It is pointless… the house is empty. No one has been here for ten days. Don’t torment yourself; you are the only one left.”

While some might argue that realism guided the protagonist through the Martian onslaught, it is undeniably his faith, hope, and love that ultimately reunite him with his wife.

Section 1.2: Deeper Insights

Although the curate holds strong religious beliefs, he fails to act upon them meaningfully, leading to his unhappiness. The artilleryman, with his sharp intellect, survives but achieves nothing due to his flaws.

In contrast, Wells’ protagonist balances scientific reasoning with moral values like hope and love, applying them effectively. He not only survives the Martian invasion but emerges wiser, finding fulfillment in the end.

The novel conveys a powerful message: isolated thought—whether scientific or moral—proves ineffective. True success arises from the integration of both, leading to survival, happiness, and wisdom.