Based on H.G. Wells’s science-fiction classic, this story tells of Griffin, a brilliant but lawless scientist who discovers how to make the human body invisible. After swallowing rare drugs, Griffin becomes invisible, but his discovery, instead of being used for good, turns him into a dangerous, selfish criminal. Homeless and cold in London, he takes refuge in a big store, but is forced to flee naked and invisible when caught. He steals clothes and bandages from a shop, then travels to the village of Iping, where he takes rooms at an inn. His strange bandaged appearance, his odd behaviour and his lack of money soon make the villagers suspicious. When his money runs out, he robs the clergyman, and when confronted, he throws off his clothes to become invisible again and escapes, attacking those who try to stop him. The story is a warning that great scientific power in the hands of a person without moral responsibility becomes a menace to society.
The story in 6 beats
1Griffin, a clever scientist, discovers how to make himself invisible but uses the idea for selfish and criminal acts.
2In London, he enters a big store for warmth and food, but escapes naked and invisible the next morning.
3He steals clothes from a theatrical shop and reaches Iping, where he stays mysteriously at an inn.
4His strange dress, secret experiments, and sudden temper make the villagers and Mrs Hall deeply suspicious.
5When his money is questioned, he robs the clergyman’s house and creates more fear in the village.
6Cornered by the police, Griffin removes his clothes, becomes invisible again, hits people, and escapes.
Science fiction and invisibilityMisuse of scientific powerGriffin as a lawless scientistSuspense in IpingResponsibility and morality
Characters & key ideas
GGriffinA brilliant scientist who makes himself invisible and lawless.
