Footprints without Feet (10 English)
This science fiction story by H.G. Wells presents a mysterious stranger who discovers the secret of becoming invisible. It explores themes of power, isolat
TL;DR: This science fiction story by H.G. Wells presents a mysterious stranger who discovers the secret of becoming invisible. It explores themes of power, i…
Written & reviewed by the Syllab.in Academic Team (CBSE/NCERT subject experts) · Updated
This science fiction story by H.G. Wells presents a mysterious stranger who discovers the secret of becoming invisible. It explores themes of power, isolat
Footprints without Feet — Summary
A mysterious stranger arrives in a quiet English village and rents a room from the Halls. The stranger, revealed to be a scientist named Griffin, has discovered the secret of invisibility and has made himself invisible. Initially, he seems reclusive but harmless, spending time conducting experiments in his room. However, his landlords become suspicious and demanding about payment and his peculiar behavior. Frustrated by their intrusions, Griffin loses his temper and terrorizes the landlords, making them believe their house is haunted. He drives them from the house and then begins a crime spree in the village, stealing money and committing assaults. The police eventually corner him, and after a struggle, he is injured and dies. The story reveals that invisibility has isolated Griffin psychologically, making him increasingly violent and mad. The narrative suggests that power without responsibility or human connection leads to destruction.
Characters
- Griffin: A brilliant but arrogant scientist who becomes invisible and gradually descends into madness and violence due to isolation and unchecked power.
- Mr. Hall: The landlord whose suspicions and confrontations with Griffin trigger the scientist's violent response.
- Mrs. Hall: The landlady who works with her husband and shares his fears and suspicions about their strange tenant.
Themes
- Power and corruption
- Isolation and madness
- Scientific ambition and ethics
- Invisibility as metaphor
- Consequences of unchecked authority
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Griffin become violent?
Griffin's violence stems from the psychological isolation caused by invisibility. Without human connection and accountability, he becomes increasingly paranoid and aggressive, viewing others as obstacles rather than people.
What is the moral lesson of the story?
The story warns that scientific power without ethical consideration and human responsibility leads to destruction. Invisibility isolates Griffin from society, intensifying his destructive tendencies.
More 10 English Chapters
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- Two Stories about Flying
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- The Hundred Dresses
- Glimpses of India
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