H. G. Wells

H. G. Wells

Herbert George Wells (21 September 1866 – 13 August 1946) was an English writer, prolific in many genres, including the novel, history, politics, social commentary, and textbooks. He is best known for his work in science fiction, and is often referred to as the "father of science fiction," along with Jules Verne and Hugo Gernsback.

Early Life and Education

Wells was born at Atlas House, 46 High Street, Bromley, in the county of Kent, England. He was the fourth and last child of Joseph Wells, a shopkeeper and professional cricketer, and his wife, Sarah Neal. In 1874, Wells suffered an accident that left him bedridden with a broken leg. To pass the time, he began to read books from the local library, which sparked his interest in literature.

Wells attended Thomas Morley's Commercial Academy, where he learned the basics of writing and arithmetic. In 1883, he won a scholarship to the Normal School of Science in London, where he studied biology under Thomas Henry Huxley.

Literary Career

Wells's first published book was a biology textbook in 1893. However, he gained fame with his science fiction novels, beginning with The Time Machine (1895), a story about a man who travels through time. This was followed by The Island of Doctor Moreau (1896), The Invisible Man (1897), and The War of the Worlds (1898).

Science Fiction

Wells's science fiction works are characterized by their imaginative and often dystopian themes. The War of the Worlds is a seminal work in the genre, depicting an invasion of Earth by Martians. The Invisible Man explores themes of identity and isolation, while The Time Machine is a critique of the social and economic structures of Wells's time.

Social Commentary

In addition to his science fiction, Wells wrote extensively on social issues. His novel Kipps (1905) and The History of Mr Polly (1910) are examples of his social novels, which often critique the class system and the struggles of the lower middle class.

Political Views

Wells was a socialist and a member of the Fabian Society, a group that advocated for social reform and the gradual implementation of socialism. He wrote several works on politics and social theory, including A Modern Utopia (1905) and The Open Conspiracy (1928).

Later Life and Legacy

Wells continued to write prolifically until his death in 1946. His later works include The Shape of Things to Come (1933), which predicted future events such as World War II. Wells's influence extends beyond literature; his ideas have inspired films, radio, and television adaptations, and his works remain a staple of science fiction literature.

References

• Wells, H. G. The Time Machine. London: William Heinemann, 1895.
• Wells, H. G. The War of the Worlds. London: William Heinemann, 1898.
• Smith, David C. H. G. Wells: Desperately Mortal. Yale University Press, 1986.

External Links

• H. G. Wells at Project Gutenberg
• H. G. Wells - Britannica