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The Characters

War of the Worlds

By H G Wells

The full novel was first published in 1898.

The Narrator

As I stand here, I am compelled to recount the extraordinary events that unfolded before my very eyes. My name is unimportant, for in this tale, I am but a witness to the unimaginable.  From the first sighting of those ominous cylinders to the deafening sound of the Martian war machines, I have journeyed through fear and despair, witnessing the relentless destruction inflicted upon our world. I am an ordinary soul caught in the midst of an extraordinary calamity. As I pen these words, my purpose is clear – to bear witness to the horrors that humanity faced, to document the resilience and fortitude that emerged in our darkest hours. 

The Martians

From the desolate expanse of Mars, we emerged alien beings far removed from the realm of humanity. Our towering forms and sinewy tentacles strike fear into the hearts of those we encounter. Eyes as vast as the cosmos gaze upon this new world with both curiosity and superiority. Our technology, an enigma to this primitive planet, lays waste to all that stands in our path. We are conquerors, heralds of a new age. Our features defy comprehension, for we are unlike anything the Earth has ever known. With calculated precision, we sow the seeds of devastation, reducing cities to smouldering ruins. 

The Artilleryman

My name is of no consequence. What matters is my unwavering determination to stand against the merciless invaders from the red planet. Youth courses through my veins, fueling my audacity and ambition. In the face of impending doom, I refuse to succumb to despair. I dream of organizing a resistance, a force to combat the otherworldly menace that threatens our very existence. With strategic brilliance and unwavering spirit, I envision a network of survivors united against the common enemy.

    The Curate

    In the depths of my being, I have always found solace in the divine. They call me a curate, a shepherd of lost souls. Yet, as the world crumbles around us, my faith wavers. The invasion has shattered my sanity, leaving me teetering on the precipice of reason. In my brokenness, I seek answers, guidance, and redemption. Every word I utter, every prayer I whisper, is laced with fear and uncertainty. My once steadfast devotion now dances with doubt as the horrors unfold before my trembling eyes.

    The Narrator’s Brother

    The presence of my brother lingers in my memories, a steadfast companion through the trials that befell us. As we faced the impending terror of the Martian invasion, our bond strengthened, forged by shared fears and hopes. My brother, a pillar of strength, stood beside me, facing the unknown with unwavering courage. Together, we navigated the chaos and witnessed the horrors unleashed upon our world.

    Ogilvy

    I am Ogilvy, a man driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a fervent passion for unravelling the mysteries of the universe. With an unyielding curiosity, I have delved deep into the realms of science, always seeking to understand the workings of our world and beyond. From the smallest atoms to the grandest celestial bodies, I have dedicated my life to the pursuit of truth. Armed with a brilliant mind and unwavering determination, I navigate the intricate web of scientific principles, unafraid to challenge conventions and explore uncharted territories. 

    Henderson

    I am Henderson, an intrepid explorer fueled by insatiable wanderlust and a relentless spirit of discovery. From the vast plains of Africa to the uncharted depths of the Amazon rainforest, I have traversed the globe, venturing into the unknown with unwavering determination. With each step I take, I embrace the thrill of unexplored territories and the exhilaration of encountering cultures and landscapes untouched by time. 

    Stent

    I am Stent, a beacon of hope and healing dedicated to transforming lives through advanced medical technology. With a passion for improving the human condition, I have immersed myself in the intricate world of cardiovascular health. Through tireless research and engineering prowess, I have developed a groundbreaking solution that restores strength to weakened arteries, opening a pathway to renewed vitality. Like a guardian within the human body, my design provides structural support and promotes the free flow of life-giving blood. 

    Lord Hilton

    I am Lord Hilton, a custodian of tradition and a champion of honour and integrity. With a lineage steeped in history, I bear the responsibility of upholding the noble values that have guided my family for generations. From the grand halls of our ancestral estate to the corridors of power, I navigate the intricate realm of aristocracy with grace and poise. With a keen understanding of diplomacy and a commitment to public service, I strive to make a meaningful impact on society, championing causes that promote equality, education, and social progress. As Lord Hilton, I bear the weight of my title with humility and strive to leave a lasting legacy of compassion and benevolence.

    The Narrator’s Wife

    I am the Narrator’s Wife, a steadfast companion amidst the chaos and devastation that has befallen our world. Though unnamed in the tale, my spirit burns bright with love, courage, and unwavering determination. As the alien invasion unfolds, my heart clings to hope, refusing to succumb to despair. I am the rock upon which my husband leans, providing him solace and strength in the face of unimaginable horrors. With each passing day, I summon resilience from the depths of my being, holding onto the belief that we can survive and rebuild. In the midst of destruction, I remain a beacon of unwavering support, a source of light in the darkest of times.