Morlocks: The Forgotten Creatures of H.G. Wells’ Classic Sci-Fi Novel The year was 1896, and H.G. Wells was at the height of his creative powers, crafting some of the most enduring science fiction novels of all time. Among his many works, one tale stands out for its haunting portrayal of a dystopian future: The War of the Worlds. While it’s the iconic Martian invasion that dominates the narrative, another, equally fascinating aspect of Wells’ masterpiece is often overlooked: the Morlocks. For those unfamiliar with the term, the Morlocks are the subterranean inhabitants of London in Wells’ novel. They’re a creature so terrifying and intriguing that they’ve become synonymous with the darker aspects of human nature. But who exactly are the Morlocks, and what do they represent? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of The War of the Worlds and explore the symbolism behind these enigmatic creatures. Key Points
The Origins of the Morlocks
The Morlocks were first introduced in Wells’ novel as a result of humanity’s desperate attempt to survive during the Martian invasion. In the aftermath of the war, London lay in ruins, with its inhabitants forced to live underground due to the toxic environment and lack of resources on the surface. As humans struggled to adapt to their new subterranean existence, they began to undergo a process of biological and psychological transformation.
The Physical Transformation
According to Wells’ novel, the Morlocks underwent a series of mutations that led to their distinctive physical appearance. They developed long necks, large eyes, and hands with sharp claws, allowing them to navigate the dark, cramped tunnels beneath London. Their bodies became adapted to the confined space, with larger heads and more prominent facial features.
The Psychological Transformation
As humans lived underground for extended periods, they began to undergo a psychological transformation as well. They became increasingly paranoid, isolated, and violent, eventually giving rise to a new species: the Morlocks. This transformation was brought about by the absence of sunlight, the confinement of their underground habitat, and the breakdown of social norms.
The Morlocks’ Social Structure
In The War of the Worlds, Wells describes the Morlocks as a hierarchical society, with larger, more dominant individuals serving as leaders. These alpha Morlocks ruled over the smaller, more submissive creatures, maintaining order through a complex system of dominance and submission. This social structure was a far cry from the cooperative, egalitarian societies that once existed on the surface.
The Morlocks’ Relationship with Humans
As humans adapted to their underground existence, they began to interact with the Morlocks in various ways. Some humans formed alliances with the Morlocks, seeing them as potential allies or even friends. Others, however, viewed the Morlocks as nothing more than monsters, worthy of extermination.
The Symbolism behind the Morlocks
So what do the Morlocks represent? On the surface, they appear to be a terrifying, otherworldly creature, embodying the darkest aspects of human nature. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that the Morlocks are a symbol for humanity’s own darker tendencies. Their physical transformation serves as a metaphor for the ways in which humans adapt to extreme environments. The psychological transformation represents the devastating effects of isolation and confinement on the human psyche. And their social structure serves as a commentary on the dangers of unchecked power and dominance. The Morlocks also represent the fears that Wells himself had about the consequences of scientific progress without moral responsibility. As scientists pushed the boundaries of knowledge and technology, they began to forget the importance of compassion, empathy, and cooperation. In conclusion, the Morlocks are more than just a fascinating footnote in The War of the Worlds; they’re a powerful symbol for humanity’s darker nature. By exploring their origins, physical transformation, psychological transformation, social structure, relationship with humans, and symbolism, we gain a deeper understanding of Wells’ masterpiece and the enduring relevance of its themes. The Morlocks serve as a reminder that, even in the most advanced societies, there exists a deep-seated tension between progress and humanity. They are a warning about the dangers of unchecked ambition, the importance of empathy and compassion, and the need for cooperation in the face of adversity. As we continue to navigate the complexities of our own world, the Morlocks remain a haunting reminder of the darker aspects of human nature that we’d rather forget.
