In H.G. Wells’ The Time Machine, the primary conflict revolves around the struggle between different social classes and the consequences of technological advancement. The protagonist, known as the Time Traveler, journeys into the distant future to discover a world divided into two distinct species: the Eloi, a gentle and carefree race, and the Morlocks, a subterranean, brutish class that preys on the Eloi.
This conflict highlights the impact of industrialization and class disparity. The Eloi, having evolved in a society that prioritizes comfort and leisure, represent the consequences of a life devoid of struggle. In contrast, the Morlocks symbolize the darker aspects of evolution, emerging as a result of humanity’s neglect of its labor force. The Time Traveler becomes a key figure in this struggle, as he embodies the tension between progress and its implications.
Ultimately, the conflict in the story serves as a commentary on the potential pitfalls of technological advancement and the social divisions that can arise as a result. The Time Traveler’s journey leaves him questioning the trajectory of humanity and the dangers of complacency, reflecting Wells’ concerns about the future of society.