The movie version of The Time Machine follows H.G. Wells' story of the time traveler fairly closely until the end of the film. Instead of leaving the Eloi to their fate, as he seems to in the book, the Time Traveler teaches them to resist the predation of the flesh-eating Morlocks. The implication of the end of the movie is that the Morlocks are destroyed, and now the Eloi, with their awakened sense of themselves in the world, will begin a new generation of humanity.

In one of the classic puzzlers of science fiction film, Findley, the time traveler's friend, rushes into the laboratory too late to see the time traveler off. As he leaves the house, he talks about how unusual it would be if the time traveler had returned to the future empty handed. Then, Mrs. Watchett notices that there are three books missing from the time traveler's library. The books are in no order, and the time traveler is widely read. The three books could be about anything. Findley ends the film by wondering what three books the time traveler would have taken with him to rebuild civilization from the ground up.

What three books would you have taken?

For our first essay in Science Fiction, you are to write an argument for the three books you would have chosen.

Requirements

Length: 600 words

Style: Semi-formal (complete sentences, no use of "you," "your," commands, rhetorical questions or direct address). First person voice could be appropriate for the essay.

Mode: A thesis based argument. In this kind of paper, the writer supports assertions (opinions) with evidence and discussion. Most of the paper's length will come from your support for each choice you make. Be convincing. After all, the fate of humanity is in your hands.

Format: In ink or typed, double spaced

Suggestions

The book titles must be of real books. You will need to consult the library to find titles, authors and publication dates.

Assume that the Eloi will learn to read using whichever books the Time Traveler brings with him. Don't waste a choice on a reading primer.

In the movie, the Eloi are not stupid; they just have been conditioned by the Morlocks. Assume that they are fully functioning adults who can be taught--in fact, who will be eager and motivated to learn (after all, they will no longer have Morlocks providing for their needs).

Decide what is most important to you and choose your books accordingly (medicine, animal husbandry, farming, construction, philosophy, science, history, psychology, crafts, entertainment, etc.)

Devote approximately 1/3 of your essay to each book. Name the book, then argue your reasoning for its inclusion.

Unify your essay by stating an overall belief about what makes a good society good, and then apply that belief in explaining each choice.

Deadlines

Day 1, Introduction of topic
Day 2, Library research
Day 3, Rough drafts for peer editing
Day 4, Final draft

The Assignment | Peer Editing Sheet | A Grading Rubric

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