“The Man Who Could Work Miracles” is a short story written by H.G. Wells. It was first published in 1898 in The Illustrated London News and later included in the collection “Tales of Space and Time”. The story follows the life of George McWhirter Fotheringay, a lowly clerk who discovers he has the power to work miracles.
The story has been interpreted as an allegory for the power of the individual to effect change in society. Fotheringay’s newfound ability to work miracles represents the potential for each person to make a difference in the world. The story also explores the consequences of power and the responsibility that comes with it. As Fotheringay struggles to control his abilities, he learns that with great power comes great responsibility.
Overall, “The Man Who Could Work Miracles” is a thought-provoking story that raises important questions about power, responsibility, and the potential for individuals to effect change in the world. Its allegorical nature makes it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today.
Origins of the Allegory
Author’s Background
H.G. Wells, the author of “The Man Who Could Work Miracles,” was an English writer who was known for his science fiction novels. He was born in 1866 and lived through the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Wells was a socialist and a pacifist, and his political views often found their way into his writing. He was also interested in science and technology, and he used his knowledge of these subjects to create his stories.
Historical Context
“The Man Who Could Work Miracles” was published in 1898, during a time of great change in England. The country was experiencing rapid industrialization, and many people were struggling to adapt to the new way of life. There was also a growing interest in the occult and supernatural, which is reflected in the story’s themes. The allegory can be seen as a commentary on the changing world and the struggle to understand and control it.
Plot Overview
Main Events
“The Man Who Could Work Miracles” is a short story by H.G. Wells, first published in 1898. The story follows the protagonist, George McWhirter Fotheringay, a clerk who becomes endowed with the power to work miracles. The story begins with Fotheringay getting into an argument about the existence of miracles at a pub, which leads to him wishing that he could perform miracles to prove his point. To his surprise, his wish comes true, and he gains the ability to work miracles.
Fotheringay’s newfound power quickly gains him attention and fame, but also causes him to become increasingly arrogant and selfish. He begins to use his power to satisfy his own desires, such as making himself rich and famous. However, as he continues to perform miracles, he realizes that his power has unintended consequences and he cannot control the outcomes of his actions.
As Fotheringay’s power becomes more uncontrollable, he begins to fear the consequences of his actions and wishes to be rid of his power. He eventually discovers that his power was granted to him by a group of beings from another world who were conducting an experiment on the human race. They decide to take away his power, and Fotheringay returns to his mundane life as a clerk.
Character Analysis
George McWhirter Fotheringay is the main character of “The Man Who Could Work Miracles”. He is initially portrayed as a meek and unassuming clerk, but his personality changes dramatically after he gains the power to work miracles. He becomes increasingly arrogant and selfish, using his power to fulfill his own desires without regard for the consequences.
The beings from another world who grant Fotheringay his power are never fully described in the story, but they are portrayed as powerful and otherworldly. They are conducting an experiment on humanity, and Fotheringay is merely a pawn in their game.
Themes and Symbolism
Power and Responsibility
In “The Man Who Could Work Miracles,” H.G. Wells explores the theme of power and responsibility. The story’s protagonist, George McWhirter Fotheringay, gains the ability to work miracles, but he struggles to control this power and use it responsibly. This reflects the idea that power can be dangerous if not wielded with care and consideration for others. Fotheringay’s attempts to use his power to improve the world are met with unintended consequences, highlighting the need for caution and responsibility when wielding power.
The Nature of Change
Another theme in “The Man Who Could Work Miracles” is the nature of change. Fotheringay’s ability to work miracles allows him to change the world around him, but he quickly discovers that change is not always for the better. The story suggests that change can be unpredictable and that the consequences of our actions are not always clear. This theme reflects the idea that change is a double-edged sword and that we must be careful what we wish for.
Humanity and Morality
Finally, “The Man Who Could Work Miracles” explores the theme of humanity and morality. Fotheringay’s ability to work miracles raises questions about what it means to be human and what our moral responsibilities are. The story suggests that our humanity is defined by our ability to make choices and to act with compassion and empathy towards others. Fotheringay’s struggles to use his power for good highlight the importance of moral responsibility and the need to consider the consequences of our actions.
Allegorical Significance
Social Commentary
“The Man Who Could Work Miracles” by H.G. Wells is a story with significant social commentary. It highlights the power struggle between the working class and the elite. The protagonist, George McWhirter Fotheringay, is a clerk with no power or influence. However, when he discovers his ability to work miracles, he becomes a threat to the established order. The story shows how those in power try to control and manipulate Fotheringay for their own gain. It is a commentary on the abuse of power and the need for equality in society.
Philosophical Insights
The story also provides philosophical insights into the nature of reality and the limitations of human perception. Fotheringay’s ability to work miracles challenges the laws of nature and the limits of human understanding. The story questions the very nature of reality and the possibility of transcending the boundaries of human perception. It also explores the idea of free will and the consequences of using power irresponsibly.
Literary Devices
Metaphor and Simile
H.G. Wells uses metaphor and simile to create vivid images that help readers understand complex ideas. For example, in “The Man Who Could Work Miracles,” Wells compares the power of miracles to a “great and wonderful machine.” This metaphor suggests that miracles are not natural phenomena, but rather something created by human beings. Similarly, Wells uses a simile to describe the effect of Fotheringay’s miracles on the people around him. He writes that they were “like a flock of sheep,” suggesting that they were easily swayed and controlled.
Irony and Satire
Wells employs irony and satire to critique social norms and institutions. For instance, in “The Man Who Could Work Miracles,” he satirizes the idea of divine intervention by portraying it as a bureaucratic process. Fotheringay’s miracles are subject to rules and regulations, and he must fill out forms and attend meetings in order to use his powers. This ironic portrayal of miracles emphasizes the absurdity of the idea that a divine force would be subject to human rules and regulations. Similarly, Wells uses satire to critique the idea of social hierarchy. Fotheringay’s miracles allow him to rise to the top of society, but he ultimately realizes that this position is not fulfilling. This satirical portrayal of social hierarchy suggests that it is not a natural or desirable state of being.
Reception and Interpretation
Critical Reception
“The Man Who Could Work Miracles” has been widely praised for its imaginative plot and its ability to blend science fiction and fantasy elements. Many critics have noted the story’s allegorical nature, with some interpreting it as a commentary on the power of the human mind and the dangers of unchecked authority. Others have seen it as a critique of religion and the idea of divine intervention.
H.G. Wells’ writing style has also been praised, with many noting his ability to create vivid and engaging characters. Critics have also noted the story’s humor and wit, which add to its overall appeal.
Public Perception
“The Man Who Could Work Miracles” has remained a popular story among readers since its initial publication in 1898. Its themes of power, control, and the nature of reality continue to resonate with audiences today.
The story has been adapted into various forms of media, including a 1937 film directed by Lothar Mendes and a 1960 episode of “The Twilight Zone.” These adaptations have helped to introduce the story to new generations of fans.
Comparative Analysis
Similar Works
“The Man Who Could Work Miracles” has been compared to other works of science fiction and fantasy, such as “The Time Machine” and “The Invisible Man,” both also written by H.G. Wells. These works share a common theme of exploring the limits of human potential and the consequences of playing with the laws of nature.
Additionally, the story’s use of allegory and satire can be compared to other works of literature, such as Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels.” Both works use fantastical elements to comment on the human condition and societal issues.
Influence on Literature
“The Man Who Could Work Miracles” has had a significant influence on the development of contemporary fantasy as a genre. The story’s use of magic and supernatural abilities to explore human nature and society paved the way for later works such as J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series and Neil Gaiman’s “American Gods.”
The story’s exploration of the limits of human power and the consequences of playing God has had a lasting impact on science fiction and speculative fiction as a whole. The story’s cautionary tale of the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of humility and responsibility continues to resonate with readers today.
Adaptations and Influence
Film and Television
“The Man Who Could Work Miracles” has been adapted into several films and television shows. The most notable adaptation is the 1937 British fantasy comedy film directed by Lothar Mendes and produced by Alexander Korda. This film stars Roland Young as the protagonist and Sir Ralph Richardson in a supporting role. The film was well-received by audiences and critics alike for its humor and imaginative storyline.
In addition to the film, there have been several television adaptations of the story. In 1959, the story was adapted for the British anthology series “Armchair Theatre.” In 1965, it was adapted for the American anthology series “The Twilight Zone.” The episode starred actor David McCallum as the protagonist and was praised for its faithful adaptation of the story.
Literary Adaptations
“The Man Who Could Work Miracles” has also inspired several literary adaptations. In 1993, author Neil Gaiman wrote a short story titled “We Can Get Them for You Wholesale,” which was inspired by the themes and ideas presented in Wells’ story. The story was later adapted into a comic book series.
In addition, the story has been referenced and alluded to in several other works of literature, including Douglas Adams’ “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” series and Terry Pratchett’s “Discworld” series. The story’s themes and ideas have resonated with readers and writers alike, making it a timeless classic.