The Invisible Man

In this section of the novel, the Invisible Man affirms his perceived superiority to Iping’s villagers. When he uncovers his invisibility, he demands, “that’s no reason why I should be poked to pieces by every stupid bumpkin in Iping, is it?” (36). His referral to “stupid bumpkins” exposes his contempt for their limited education. He believes that his scientific knowledge and university education make him superior. Later, when he meets Thomas Marvel, he characterizes the countryside as “a beast of a country […] and pigs for people” (41). Dr. Kemp will later echo this sentiment. The scientists’ classist vainglory points to the divide between urbanites and country people in late 19th century Great Britain.

The Invisible Man and Marvel are both outcasts who feel they have been wronged by society, and they believe this injustice gives them license to operate outside societal mores. They both crave physical comforts (like boots, clothes, and food) as well as the power unattainable from their marginalized positions of homelessness and albinism. Con artistry and higher education seem to be the keys to power if they cannot reach it through traditional means: “an invisible man is a man of power” (44). There is a comparison of their similarities, but also a distinction between Marvel’s peaceful nature and the Invisible Man’s violent proclivities.

The text also shows the villagers’ shallow assumptions about both outsiders: that Marvel is a thief and that the Invisible Man is a criminal, based simply on his odd looks. Such judgmental conjecture belies the villagers’ self-proclaimed Christian character: They are not charitable toward outsiders or those in need. This irony pervades the text and is emphasized by the recurring backdrop of Whit Monday, a Christian holiday commemorating the Holy Spirit’s arrival before the disciples of Christ. The day is traditionally celebrated by wearing white garments. Furthermore, the Holy Spirit is said to have spoken to the disciples, like a ghost, through a disembodied voice. These details accentuate the Invisible Man’s ghostliness through references to Whit Monday, with its ceremonial white robes and story of a spectral voice. At the same time, the celebration highlights the supernatural aspects of Christianity. There is a subtle comparison of ghosts with invisible men, spirits with disembodied voices, and religion with science. Rather than condemn Christianity, the text presents similarities between a religious zealot and a similarly overzealous scientist. There are dangers in taking any belief—spiritual or scientific—too seriously or too far.