What’s in a Name?
It is interesting to note that H.G. Wells does not give his main characters names in The War of the Worlds. The narrator, his wife, and his brother all remain unnamed throughout the story. This bold and unique choice allows readers to immerse themselves in the story without being overly anchored to specific identities. Surprisingly, this lack of names does not affect the relatability of the characters in any way. Their struggles, fears, and decisions feel universal, allowing readers to project themselves onto these roles and experience the alien invasion through a deeply personal lens.
The anonymity of the characters might also reflect the broader themes of the novel. The War of the Worlds is, at its core, a story about humanity as a collective—its vulnerability, adaptability, and resilience in the face of an existential threat. By not naming his protagonists, Wells creates a narrative that is not about individuals but rather about the human condition. This universal approach underscores the idea that the events in the story could happen to anyone, anywhere, emphasizing the randomness and impartiality of the Martian invasion.
However, this creative choice has presented challenges for adapters over the years. When translating The War of the Worlds to other media, such as film, television, or stage, the lack of names becomes problematic. Visual and performance-based storytelling often relies on named characters to create a stronger emotional connection with the audience and to facilitate dialogue. As a result, most adaptations assign names to the main characters, often drawing inspiration from Wells’ life.
For example, the narrator is frequently named George or Herbert, referencing H.G. Wells’ own given names, Herbert George. The narrator’s wife or love interest might be called Amy, Catherine, or Jane, all names associated with Wells’ second wife, Amy-Catherine Robbins, whose nickname was Jane. Similarly, the brother is sometimes named Frederick, after Wells’ real-life sibling. These names serve to ground the characters more firmly in the context of the story while paying homage to the author.
Despite these adaptations, the decision to assign names is not without controversy. Some purists argue that naming the characters detracts from the universality and timelessness of Wells’ original vision. By giving them specific identities, the story becomes less about humanity as a whole and more about particular individuals, potentially limiting the reader’s ability to relate to the narrative on a broader scale. Yet, others feel that naming the characters is a necessary compromise to adapt the story effectively to modern audiences, who are accustomed to named protagonists.
Wells’ choice to leave his main characters unnamed was ahead of its time and remains an intriguing aspect of The War of the Worlds. It highlights his innovative storytelling and focus on universal themes. At the same time, it has left an enduring challenge for those who seek to reinterpret his masterpiece for new audiences. This subtle yet significant detail continues to spark discussion among fans and scholars alike, proving that sometimes, what’s left unsaid can speak volumes.