The Unraveling Mystery of War of the Worlds
What killed the Aliens in War of the Worlds?
One of the most infamous science fiction stories of all time, H.G. Wells’ "The War of the Worlds" has been a cultural phenomenon since its publication in 1898. The tale of Martians invading Earth and eventually being defeated by the Earth’s immune system has fascinated readers for generations. However, a crucial question remains: What killed the aliens?
In this article, we will explore the different theories and theories about what killed the Martian invaders and shed some light on the enduring mystery surrounding the conclusion of this timeless classic.
Early Interpretations and Speculation
Upon its release, Wells himself was tight-lipped about the exact mechanism responsible for the Martians’ downfall. Instead, he preferred to emphasize the parallels between the conflict and human war. Fans and scholars were left to their own devices, piecing together various theories from subtle hints throughout the text.
Earth’s Natural Defenses
Natural antibodies and Microbial Action was a recurring theory, as early reviewers suggested that the Martian virus might have been weakened or destroyed by the human immune system’s natural defense. Wells’ descriptions of human reactions to the virus and its gradual breakdown suggested to some that antibodies produced by humans and animals played a significant role in weakening the virus, ultimately killing the Martians.
Sun and Temperature
Another idea floated by enthusiasts was the potential harmful effects of sunlight and temperature changes. Martians were ill-prepared to survive Earth’s radiant sunlight and heat, which led to overheating, heat stroke, and dehydration, making it difficult for the aliens to adapt to their new environment. Combining these factors, scholars believed that the harsh temperature and climate on Earth significantly undermined the Martians’ strength.
Infections and Contaminations
Fascinated by the role of microbial action in nature, many interpreted the book as implying that the Earth’s microbiome was at the root of the Martian problem. The theory proposes that native bacteria, microorganisms, and other organic compounds contaminated the Martians and led to their rapid downfall.
Man as an Environmental Factor
Human behavior, including actions, environment, and natural circumstances, have also been recognized as contributors to the alien defeat. The Martian destruction was linked to the chaotic aftermath of war, allowing human survival through a mixture of dumb luck and circumstances beyond human control. Earth’s unique conditions and geological composition made it a fundamentally different world, hostile to the aliens.
Chemical Factors and Compounds
More scientific interpretations came into the fray. Analysts detected the role of certain chemicals or compounds, possibly generated during the War, like:
- Radioactive fallouts, potentially absorbed or inhaled by the Martians, leading to the buildup of toxins within their systems
- Petroleum derivatives, a chemical released from burning cities and destroyed infrastructure, creating hazardous substances inhospitable to Martian physiology
Summary and Evaluation
Multiple explanations, based on text clues and observations, are consistent with Wells’ account and human observations during World War I:
- Human resistance, biological (natural defense) and immunological factors
- Adverse climate conditions and environment
- Chemical warfare-related pollution, contamination by bacterial agents or chemicals released in battle
In summary, there isn’t one conclusive explanation as to what precisely killed the aliens. It was a culmination of multiple, interlocking factors:
Favorable Combinations Leading to Martian Demise
A synthesis of:
| Natural/Immune Defense | Adverse Environmental Factors | Chemical Compounds/Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Earth’s biological resilience | Radiation, Temperature Extremes, Duststorms | Chemicals (radiation fallouts) /Petroleum Derivatives (Oil & Pollution) |
As a masterclass example of storytelling, War of the Worlds allows various theories and explanations, reinforcing its eternal relevance. Regardless of what specific event might have occurred, humanity, through no singular hero or deliberate act, collectively prevailed, defying the might of extraterrestrial conquerors. In conclusion, this fascinating inquiry invites ongoing analysis, with interpretations weaving a tapestry of interpretations surrounding this epochal masterpiece.
