The Invisible Man – Class 12 English Novel NCERT Solutions

NCERT Solutions The Invinsible Man About the novelist: H.G. Wells

Chapter 1: The Strange Man’s Arrival

The novel opens on a cold February afternoon in the quiet English village of Iping. A mysterious stranger arrives at the Coach and Horses Inn, run by Mr. and Mrs. Hall. His appearance is startling—his face is wrapped in bandages, he wears large dark goggles, thick gloves, a wide-brimmed hat, and a high-collared coat. His look is so unusual that the villagers are both alarmed and intrigued. Despite his cold and unfriendly attitude, Mrs. Hall allows him to stay because it’s an off-season for guests and he pays her well in gold coins. He claims to have been in an accident and insists on being left alone, avoiding all conversation and personal questions. The stranger’s behavior quickly becomes the center of gossip in the village. Though Mrs. Hall makes an effort to welcome him and engage in polite conversation, the man remains distant and secretive. His presence sets the stage for the mystery and suspense that follow throughout the novel.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: Why was Mrs. Hall shocked to see the visitor when she came to him with a mustard pot?

When Mrs. Hall entered the visitor’s room to place the mustard pot on the table, she was startled by the sight before her. The man had lifted his head, and for the first time, she could clearly see his face—or rather, what little of it was visible. His entire face, except for his pink nose, was concealed under bandages. A white cloth covered the lower half of his face, muffling his voice, and another bandage wrapped over his forehead above his dark blue glasses. Even his ears were covered, giving him a mysterious and unsettling appearance. Mrs. Hall was taken aback, assuming he had suffered from some serious accident.

Question 2: Why did Mrs. Hall tolerate the strange visitor as long as she does?

Although Mrs. Hall found the stranger’s behavior impolite and secretive, she chose to put up with it because he had paid her generously in gold coins. The arrival of a paying guest in the cold, quiet month of February was quite rare, and this financial benefit made her overlook his odd manners. In fact, she was so thrilled by having a guest during such a dull season that she didn’t even take the time to learn his name properly.

Question 3: What was the conversation made between the visitor and Mrs. Hall when the visitor was smoking a pipe?

While clearing away the visitor’s lunch, Mrs. Hall noticed he was quietly smoking a pipe. During their brief exchange, he mentioned that his luggage was still at Bramblehurst station and asked how soon it could be brought over. Mrs. Hall informed him that it wouldn’t be possible until the following day, which visibly annoyed him. She tried to keep the conversation going by mentioning how the steep and icy roads often led to accidents. However, the man abruptly ended the discussion by asking for some matches since his pipe had gone out, clearly uninterested in continuing the chat.

II. CHARACTER-BASED

Question 1: Describe the way the strange visitor was dressed.

The mysterious visitor was entirely concealed in clothing and bandages. Thick gloves covered his hands, and a wide-brimmed felt hat was pulled low over his head. His face was mostly wrapped in bandages, with only the pink tip of his nose visible. He wore large spectacles with side lenses that resembled goggles. A napkin was tied over his mouth and jaw area, which caused his voice to sound muffled. Additionally, he wore a dark brown velvet jacket with a high collar turned up and a white silk scarf wrapped around his neck, allowing him to bring the pipe to his lips while staying covered.

Question 2: Describe the character-sketch of Mrs. Hall.

Mrs. Hall, the co-owner of the Coach and Horses Inn, is a practical and warm-hearted woman. She enjoys interacting with her guests and shows genuine concern for their comfort, as seen when she offers to dry the stranger’s wet coat in the kitchen. Despite the visitor’s cold and unwelcoming attitude, she attempts to engage him in conversation and even shares personal stories, like her nephew’s knife injury, in hopes of getting him to open up. Her tolerance of his odd behavior reflects both her hospitable nature and her interest in keeping a well-paying guest at her inn.

Chapter 2: Mr. Teddy Henfrey’s First Impressions

In this chapter, we are introduced to Teddy Henfrey, a local villager known for his skill in repairing clocks. One afternoon, he visits the Coach and Horses Inn, where Mrs. Hall asks him to fix a clock in the room of the mysterious guest. Without knocking, Mrs. Hall leads Teddy into the stranger’s room, an action that startles the guest. For a brief moment, she notices something strange about his face—it appears as though he has an enormous mouth—but he quickly covers it up again. The stranger firmly tells her that he values his privacy and does not want to be disturbed. He explains that he is a man of science—an “experimental investigator”—and his research requires solitude and concentration. He also claims to have been in an accident, which makes his eyes extremely sensitive to light, hence the dark glasses and covered face. Mrs. Hall leaves Teddy alone to fix the clock. However, Teddy deliberately drags out the repair, hoping to learn more about the peculiar visitor. Unfortunately for him, the stranger catches on and sternly instructs him to finish the job and leave. Suspicious and curious, Teddy starts speculating about the guest’s identity. He even considers the possibility that the man might be a fugitive hiding from the police. On his way back, Teddy encounters Mr. Hall, Mrs. Hall’s husband, and tells him about the strange new lodger. Though Mr. Hall becomes slightly suspicious, his tipsiness dulls his concern. When he returns to the inn, Mrs. Hall dismisses his worries, though deep down, she too begins to feel uneasy about their strange guest.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: What two reasons did the stranger give to Mrs. Hall for not being interrupted by anyone?

The stranger explained to Mrs. Hall that he was an “experimental investigator” deeply involved in scientific research, which required quiet and isolation. He had come to Iping seeking peace and rest after feeling cold and exhausted. He requested not to be disturbed so his work wouldn’t be interrupted. Additionally, he mentioned that due to a recent accident, his eyes had become very sensitive to light and strain. During these painful episodes, even the smallest noise or an unexpected visitor could cause him great discomfort. He hoped Mrs. Hall would understand and respect his need for privacy.

Question 2: Why did the stranger get angry with Mr. Henfrey?

When Mrs. Hall brought Mr. Henfrey to repair the clock in the stranger’s room, they entered without knocking, which irritated the guest. The stranger expressed his displeasure at being disturbed, stating that he was engaged in important research that required concentration. Mr. Henfrey, curious about the man, deliberately worked slowly to get a better look at him. However, the stranger quickly realized this and grew annoyed. He firmly told Henfrey to complete his task quickly and leave at once, clearly showing his frustration.

Question 3: What information did Henfrey share with Mr. Hall?

While passing through the village, Henfrey met Mr. Hall and casually mentioned that a strange individual was staying at his inn. This remark planted a seed of doubt in Mr. Hall’s mind, making him a bit uneasy about their guest. However, since Mr. Hall had been drinking, his reaction wasn’t very strong. When he mentioned the matter to his wife, Mrs. Hall dismissed his concerns and advised him to stay out of it, though she too was beginning to feel slightly suspicious.

Chapter 3: The Thousand and One Bottles

The chapter begins with the arrival of the stranger’s belongings at the Coach and Horses Inn, brought from the station by a man named Fearenside, who is accompanied by his dog. The stranger’s luggage consists mostly of boxes packed with glass bottles cushioned in straw—clearly items related to scientific work. As the delivery is being made, Fearenside’s dog suddenly attacks the stranger, tearing through his glove and trousers. The incident causes quite a scene. The stranger hurriedly retreats to his room to change clothes, leaving everyone concerned and curious. Mr. Hall, showing a bit of neighborly kindness, decides to check on the guest. However, when he enters the room uninvited, he is shocked to witness something unusual—but before he can make sense of what he saw, the stranger pushes him out of the room and slams the door. Meanwhile, the villagers, always eager for gossip, gather around the luggage and start discussing what they would do if they were attacked by a dog. With little entertainment in the village, the stranger has become their main topic of discussion. Later, when the stranger finally begins unpacking his glass bottles and gets down to some mysterious work, Mrs. Hall brings him dinner. Like her husband, she also enters the room without knocking. This leads to two awkward moments: she catches sight of something odd about the stranger’s appearance—his eye sockets appear deeply hollow until he quickly covers them with his glasses—and he immediately complains about being disturbed again. Mrs. Hall is also irritated by the untidiness of his room, but the stranger dismisses her concerns and bluntly tells her to add the damages to his bill. The scene then shifts to a local pub, where Fearenside and Henfrey exchange gossip. Fearenside claims that when his dog tore the man’s trousers, he saw a black leg, which puzzled him since the stranger’s nose is pink. Based on this strange contrast, he jokingly suggests that the man might be partially colored like a piebald horse—half one color, half another—only adding to the villagers’ curiosity and suspicion.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: What happened when the stranger’s belongings arrived at the inn?

When the stranger’s luggage arrived, the boxes were mostly filled with glass bottles packed in straw. During the delivery, Fearenside’s dog unexpectedly attacked the stranger, tearing through his glove and trousers. This created quite a stir and forced the man to retreat to his room to change. The villagers, already curious about him, became even more suspicious after this incident.

Question 2: Why was Mr. Hall shocked when he entered the stranger’s room?

Mr. Hall went upstairs to check on the stranger out of concern. However, when he entered the room without knocking, he was startled by what he saw—though the text doesn’t fully describe it, it’s clear he caught a glimpse of something abnormal or disturbing about the man. Before he could figure it out, the stranger slammed the door shut, pushing Mr. Hall out of the room.

Question 3: What new gossip did Fearenside share at the pub?

At the pub, Fearenside shared a peculiar observation. He said that when his dog attacked the stranger and tore through his clothes, he noticed that the man’s leg appeared to be black. This confused him, as the stranger’s nose was pink. Jokingly, Fearenside suggested that the man might be colored like a piebald horse—part dark, part light—which added fuel to the villagers’ growing suspicions and rumors.

Chapter 4: Mr. Cuss Interviews the Stranger

Following the excitement caused by the dog attack, life in the village of Iping settles into a slow, predictable rhythm—at least until the local club festival, which takes place around Whit-Monday, a Christian holiday. In the meantime, the mysterious stranger becomes a permanent, if unwelcome, part of village life. The stranger keeps mostly to himself, spending long hours with his bottles and scientific tools. Whenever Mrs. Hall complains about the disorder he creates, he simply tells her to add the cost to his bill. This arrangement works for a while, but by April, it becomes evident that he’s running low on funds. The villagers remain deeply suspicious of him. His odd habits—like skipping church on Sundays and taking solitary walks at night—make him a subject of constant gossip. Wild theories circulate: some believe he’s a criminal on the run, others think he might be an anarchist, a lunatic, or even a strange man who could make money by displaying himself at fairs. What everyone agrees on is that he seems far too short-tempered for life in a quiet village, though perhaps his frustration would make more sense in a busy city. One person who is especially interested in the stranger is Dr. Cuss, the local physician. On Whit Sunday, Cuss decides to pay the stranger a visit, driven both by professional curiosity and a touch of envy over the impressive-looking chemical apparatus the stranger owns. However, what begins as a casual visit turns into something much stranger. After attempting to chat about the stranger’s work, Cuss experiences something startling: the stranger explains that some of his work was lost when a key formula was accidentally burned. As he’s talking, Cuss notices that the stranger’s sleeve is empty, suggesting the absence of an arm. Then, out of nowhere, an invisible force seems to pinch Cuss on the nose. Frightened and bewildered, Cuss flees the room and rushes to tell Mr. Bunting, the village vicar, about the bizarre encounter.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: What did Mrs. Hall tell the villagers about her guest, the strange visitor, staying in her Inn?

Mrs. Hall described her unusual guest as an “experimental investigator”, someone engaged in serious scientific study. When asked what that meant, she would often reply with an air of pride, suggesting that educated people would understand such terms. She explained that the man had suffered an accident, which had temporarily disfigured his face and hands, making him highly self-conscious and uncomfortable with public attention. Because of this, she said, he preferred to stay covered and remain undisturbed by others. Though he kept to himself, Mrs. Hall defended him, portraying him as a serious and sensitive man who deserved privacy.

Question 2: Describe the life of the stranger at the Inn.

The stranger lived a very secretive and solitary life during his stay at the inn. He rarely interacted with anyone, avoided social customs like attending Sunday church services, and often took walks late at night, which raised eyebrows in the village. Despite being messy, he would always pay Mrs. Hall extra for the inconvenience. His odd behavior led to all kinds of speculations among the villagers—some believed he was a criminal, others thought he was insane, or even someone with a strange appearance who could make money by exhibiting himself at public fairs. One thing everyone agreed on was that his temper was too sharp and unfriendly for a quiet rural village like Iping.

Question 3: Discuss the meeting of Dr. Cuss with the stranger.

Dr. Cuss, the village doctor, was both professionally and personally intrigued by the mysterious visitor. The constant bandaging of his body and the presence of so many unusual bottles sparked Cuss’s curiosity. He found an opportunity to speak with the stranger under the pretense of collecting donations for a village nurse. Oddly enough, even Mr. Hall didn’t know the man’s name. When Cuss finally entered the stranger’s room, strange sounds were heard by Mrs. Hall—muffled voices, a loud gasp, a chair being knocked over, laughter, and hurried footsteps. Soon after, Cuss rushed out of the room, looking pale and startled, holding his hat in his hand, and clearly shaken by whatever had occurred inside.

Question 4: What did Dr. Cuss tell Rev. Bunting, the vicar?

Dr. Cuss described his bizarre and frightening experience with the stranger to Reverend Bunting. During their conversation, the stranger pulled up his sleeve, revealing that it was completely empty—yet the sleeve moved as if there was an invisible arm inside. Cuss was stunned as what felt like invisible fingers reached out and pinched his nose. When he tried to hit the arm, it felt solid, just like a normal human arm, but there was no visible body part to strike. He admitted to Bunting that the experience was deeply disturbing, leaving him convinced that the man possessed some unnatural, possibly dangerous ability.

Chapter 5: The Burglary at the Vicarage

The events of this chapter unfold in the early hours of Whit-Monday, a day marked by the village club’s celebrations in Iping. Just before dawn, Mrs. Bunting, the vicar’s wife, is startled awake when she hears the door of their bedroom quietly open and close. Curious and alarmed, she sits up and listens, soon catching the sound of bare footsteps moving from the adjoining dressing room into the hallway and down the stairs. Worried, she gently wakes up Reverend Bunting, who immediately becomes alert. Without lighting a lamp, he steps out onto the landing and listens intently. From downstairs, he hears someone rummaging through his study desk—followed by a sudden, unmistakable sneeze. Grabbing a poker for protection, Mr. Bunting quietly heads down the stairs while Mrs. Bunting follows behind him. It’s around four in the morning, and the house is completely silent except for the sounds coming from the study. Suddenly, they hear a drawer being pulled open and the rustling of papers. Then, a match is struck, lighting up the study with a yellow glow from a candle. From his position in the hallway, Mr. Bunting peeks through the slightly open door and sees the drawer open, the candle burning—and yet, no one is there. Moments later, they hear the sound of coins clinking, realizing someone has discovered the small stash of gold kept for household use—two pounds and ten shillings in half-sovereigns. With the poker raised, Mr. Bunting bursts into the study, commanding the intruder to surrender, while Mrs. Bunting hurries behind him. To their utter shock, the room is completely empty. Confused, Mr. Bunting insists he had seen the candle lit and the drawer opened. Mrs. Bunting confirms the drawer had been opened and the money is indeed gone. Just then, they hear another loud sneeze coming from the hallway. Rushing toward the sound, they hear the kitchen door slam. Mr. Bunting calls for a candle and leads the way. They both hear bolts being drawn back quickly. As they reach the kitchen, they see the back door swinging open, then slamming shut—but strangely, no one is visible leaving the house. They search the entire house thoroughly, but despite the obvious signs of a break-in, they find no one. The incident leaves them completely baffled and unsettled, as it seems a robbery has been committed by someone who cannot be seen.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: Describe the robbery episode at dawn in the Buntings’ house.

Around four in the morning, just before daybreak, Mrs. Bunting was suddenly awakened by the sound of their bedroom door quietly opening and closing. Alarmed, she woke up her husband, Reverend Bunting, and together they began to listen carefully. They soon heard noises coming from downstairs—specifically, someone rummaging through the study desk, followed by a loud sneeze. Grabbing a poker for protection, Mr. Bunting tiptoed downstairs while his wife stayed close behind. The house was eerily silent until the sound of a drawer being pulled open and papers rustling broke the stillness. Moments later, they noticed a match being struck, casting a yellow glow from a lit candle in the study. However, to their shock, no person was visible in the room. They heard the unmistakable sound of coins clinking, and quickly realized that the small stash of household money had been stolen. As they moved toward the hallway, the kitchen door suddenly slammed shut. When they entered the kitchen, they found it completely empty. Despite clear signs of intrusion and theft, no one could be found anywhere in the house.

Chapter 6: The Furniture That Went Mad

At the Coach and Horses Inn, life continues as usual—until something very strange happens. Early in the morning, Mr. and Mrs. Hall go down to the cellar to secretly dilute their beer, a practice they don’t want their customers to notice. While in the process, Mr. Hall realizes he needs some sarsaparilla to cover the taste of the watered-down drink. As he goes back upstairs, he observes something odd: the front door is wide open, and the stranger is missing from his room. Curious and concerned, Mrs. Hall decides to investigate. She cautiously enters the stranger’s room and is shocked by what she sees. As soon as she steps in, she hears sneezing—but there’s no one there. Suddenly, the blankets and pillows start flying, and the furniture begins moving violently, as if possessed by unseen forces. Terrified, Mrs. Hall immediately concludes that the stranger has used black magic or spirits to haunt her inn. She believes he may have somehow placed ghosts inside the furniture, perhaps using the strange bottles he keeps in his room. The confusion grows when villagers, including Sandy Wadgers, the local blacksmith, and Mr. Huxter, the shopkeeper, arrive to see what’s going on. But with so many people talking at once, no one can figure out what’s really happening. Just when panic is at its peak, the stranger suddenly reappears, visibly annoyed, and demands that everyone leave him alone. His sudden return deepens the mystery, and the villagers remain both fearful and suspicious of his odd behavior.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: What did Mr. and Mrs. Hall experience when they entered the room of the stranger? How do you explain this behaviour?

When Mr. Hall knocked on the stranger’s door and received no reply, he decided to go inside. As he suspected, the room was empty. The stranger’s clothes and bandages were scattered over a chair and along the bed rail, and his large hat was hanging on the bedpost. Mr. Hall called his wife to show her what he had discovered. As the two entered the room together, they heard a sneeze coming from the staircase, which startled them. Inside the room, Mrs. Hall noticed that the bedding and clothes felt very cold, as though the guest had left long ago. Suddenly, the bedclothes moved on their own, jumping over the rail. The hat flew off the bedpost, spun through the air, and struck Mrs. Hall in the face. Next, the chair seemed to come alive—it threw the stranger’s coat and trousers aside and charged at Mrs. Hall with its legs pointed forward. She screamed in terror, and both Mr. and Mrs. Hall were forcefully pushed out of the room by the moving chair. The door then slammed shut and locked itself. Instantly, everything went silent. To anyone witnessing this without explanation, the event would surely seem supernatural, possibly the work of ghosts or spirits, especially given the invisible force behind the strange occurrences. However, in reality, it hints at the invisibility of the stranger and his growing loss of control over remaining hidden.

Chapter 7: The Unveiling

The day after the burglary at the vicarage, news begins to spread through the village, reaching the Coach and Horses Inn, where Mr. and Mrs. Hall reside. Rumours about the mysterious break-in and the odd behaviour of the stranger spark growing suspicion among the locals. While the stranger stays locked in his room, Mrs. Hall refuses to serve him any food, upset by the strange disturbances in her inn and his failure to pay the bill. Eventually, an argument breaks out between her and the stranger regarding unpaid dues. To everyone’s surprise, he claims he has recently come into some money and can now pay his bills—this sudden availability of cash makes the villagers immediately suspect that he is the burglar who stole the money from the vicarage. The confrontation escalates. Frustrated by the accusations and gossip, the stranger finally loses his temper and decides to reveal his secret to the stunned crowd gathered in the bar. Declaring that they don’t understand who or what he is, he slowly lifts his hand to his face and removes it—only to show a horrifying void where his face should be. This terrifying act sends the bar patrons into a state of panic. They had expected perhaps a scarred or deformed man, but nothing could prepare them for the sight of nothingness—the absence of a face altogether. Frightened villagers from outside, drawn by the commotion (as it’s Whit Monday, a festival day), rush in to witness the chaos. Soon, Constable Jaffers arrives to arrest the stranger. However, when he enters the inn with a few brave volunteers, they are startled to see a man with no head calmly eating bread and cheese. The stranger now admits that he is the invisible man. Although this explanation is minimal, it’s the first time he refers to himself using the phrase. As the constable tries to arrest him, a physical struggle breaks out. The invisible man pretends to surrender, but instead, he begins removing his clothes, making himself completely invisible. Taking advantage of his unseen state, he fights back with full force, overpowering the crowd. The brawl ends in total chaos. People are beaten down by an enemy they cannot see, and Constable Jaffers is struck so severely that it is unclear whether he’s just unconscious or worse. The crowd scatters in fear, and the invisible man makes his dramatic escape, now fully untraceable.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: Describe the episode of the unveiling of the stranger at the Hall’s Inn.

The scene unfolds with an argument between Mrs. Hall and the stranger regarding his pending payment. Although the stranger insists that he has come into some money, this sudden wealth raises suspicions about his involvement in the recent burglary at the vicarage. Mrs. Hall presses him further, questioning the strange incidents involving her furniture and how he managed to return to a room that had been previously empty. Enraged by the growing tension and accusations, the stranger decides to expose his true identity. In a shocking act, he lifts his palm to his face and removes the cloth covering it, revealing a hollow black space where his face should have been. To the horror of everyone present, he hands Mrs. Hall his pink nose, causing her to scream and stumble back in disbelief. He continues by removing his hat, spectacles, and facial wrappings, leaving only a visible body below the neck, with nothing visible above the collar. Witnessing this grotesque revelation, the people at the inn panic and flee in fear. Just then, Mr. Hall enters, accompanied by Constable Jaffers, who brings a warrant to arrest the stranger for the robbery committed the night before.

Question 2: Describe the escape of the stranger from Coach and Horses Inn.

Constable Jaffers, determined to uphold the law, informs the stranger that even without a visible head, the arrest must proceed as his warrant is for the “body.” He steps forward and manages to grab the invisible man’s wrist and neck, initiating a brief but tense struggle. Although the invisible man appears to submit at first, things take a dramatic turn. As Jaffers prepares to use handcuffs, the stranger calmly explains that although he has a complete body, his invisibility makes him uncatchable. Suddenly, he sits down and begins undressing—kicking off his slippers, socks, and trousers beneath the table. In one quick movement, he removes his coat, making himself entirely invisible. Using this advantage, the now unseen man launches an attack on the people in the room. In the confusion, no one can defend themselves or track his movements. Constable Jaffers is struck heavily on the head, collapsing to the ground. Whether he is unconscious or worse is not immediately clear. Amid the fear and chaos, the invisible man successfully escapes from the inn, leaving behind a trail of panic and unanswered questions.

Chapter 8: In Transit

In this chapter, we are introduced to Gibbons, an amateur naturalist who is spending his morning lying on the wide, open downs, completely alone with no one else in sight for miles. Relaxing and almost drifting into sleep, Gibbons is suddenly startled by the sound of a man coughing, sneezing, and then swearing loudly nearby. Confused, he looks around but does not see anyone. The voice, however, continues to swear with the fluency and vocabulary of a well-educated man. The shouting and sneezing intensify, then slowly fade into the distance, heading in the direction of Adderdean, and finally ending with a muffled sneeze. Unaware of the earlier chaos that had taken place in Iping, Gibbons is deeply unsettled by this bizarre and unexplained incident. Troubled by what he heard, he quickly gets to his feet and hurries down the hill toward the village, hoping to make sense of what just occurred.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: What did Gibbons experience while taking a nap in the open fields of the village?

While lying alone on the vast, open downs with no one else nearby, Gibbons, who had been resting peacefully and nearly asleep, was suddenly disturbed by strange sounds. He heard someone coughing, sneezing, and swearing fiercely, seemingly right next to him. The voice, though invisible, became louder and more intense before gradually fading away into the distance, heading in the direction of Adderdean. It all ended with a loud, unexpected sneeze. The bizarre and unexplained nature of the experience left Gibbons feeling deeply unsettled. Shaken, he quickly got up and made his way down the hill toward the village, eager to understand what had just happened.

Chapter 9: Mr. Thomas Marvel

In this chapter, we are introduced to Mr. Marvel, a wandering vagrant who has no permanent home or job. Dressed in worn-out clothes and a battered high hat, Marvel is seen contemplating two pairs of second-hand boots, both likely received through charity. As he sits pondering which pair to wear, something unusual happens. Suddenly, Marvel hears a disembodied voice speaking to him, though he sees no one around. Confused and frightened, he starts questioning his own sanity, wondering if he’s either intoxicated or losing his mind. To convince him otherwise, the invisible speaker begins throwing small stones at Marvel, forcing him to believe that someone really is present, just not visible. As Marvel watches in disbelief, he then notices bread and cheese appear mysteriously before him, further confirming the presence of the unseen man. The Invisible Man then introduces himself and tells Marvel that he needs his assistance. He appeals to Marvel’s own status as a social outcast and promises him a reward in exchange for cooperation. The Invisible Man tries to persuade him by saying that being invisible brings great power, though it clearly comes with challenges—evident when he suddenly sneezes loudly, revealing some of the discomfort he experiences in his current state.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: Narrate the episode of Mr. Thomas Marvel’s first meeting with the invisible man.

Mr. Thomas Marvel was sitting on a grassy slope near Adderdean, studying two mismatched pairs of old boots given to him through charity. As he pondered over which uncomfortable pair to wear, a voice spoke out behind him, commenting on his footwear. Assuming it to be a trick of the mind or perhaps the result of drinking, Marvel dismissed it. However, his disbelief turned to alarm when he began to feel small stones hitting him out of nowhere. It became evident that someone invisible was present. Marvel then saw food appear before him—bread and cheese—without anyone visibly placing them there. The disembodied voice explained he was an invisible man who needed Marvel’s assistance. He appealed to Marvel’s outcast status and promised rewards in exchange for his cooperation. The invisible man spoke of the power invisibility gave him, though he revealed its toll through a loud sneeze, hinting at the physical strain it caused.

II. CHARACTER-BASED

Question 1: Give a brief character-sketch of Mr. Thomas Marvel.

Mr. Thomas Marvel is introduced as a carefree, idle tramp who lives on the fringes of society. He doesn’t have a permanent residence or a regular job and survives by relying on the charity of others. His shabby appearance and worn-out clothes reflect a life of poverty and drifting. Marvel is physically described as short, stout, and somewhat unkempt, wearing a battered high hat and clothes held together with makeshift fastenings like twine and shoelaces. Initially, he dismisses the invisible man’s voice as a drunken hallucination, revealing his fondness for alcohol. Despite his eccentricity, Marvel is pragmatic. Once he’s convinced that the invisible man is real, he quickly decides to cooperate—not out of loyalty, but out of a desire to secure personal gain. His actions show that he is a survivor, doing whatever he can to improve his situation, even if it means aligning himself with a mysterious and dangerous figure.

Chapter 10: The Village Settles Down

After the shocking incident where the invisible man revealed his true nature, the village of Iping was thrown into a state of panic. However, as time passed, the initial fear faded, and the villagers gradually returned to their festival celebrations, especially since it was Whit Monday, a day of festivities. The narrator reflects on how people often respond more to immediate, ordinary matters than to overwhelming or unbelievable experiences, no matter how extraordinary they may be. Not long after, a new figure arrives in Iping. While the villagers don’t recognize him, the readers soon realize it is Mr. Thomas Marvel, identified by his tattered appearance and old high hat. Marvel behaves suspiciously, especially around the Coach and Horses Inn, the site of the earlier chaos. Mr. Huxter, the local shopkeeper, notices Marvel lingering near a window of the inn, carrying a bag, and acting strangely. Given the recent troubles in town, this immediately raises concern. Believing he may be up to something criminal, Huxter calls out “Thief!” and begins to chase him. But just as Huxter is about to catch up with Marvel, something invisible and forceful trips him, causing him to fall hard and get knocked out. The mysterious interference suggests the Invisible Man is still close by, secretly watching and protecting Marvel.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: How were the villagers of Iping celebrating their Whit-Monday?

The people of Iping were in high spirits as they celebrated Whit-Monday. The streets were decorated, and villagers dressed in their finest attire to enjoy the holiday. Despite the earlier scare caused by the Invisible Man, the afternoon saw people returning to the festivities. At Haysman’s meadow, a large tent had been set up where Mrs. Bunting and other women served tea. Nearby, children played games and competed in races. Members of the county club, having attended church earlier, wore pink and green badges, enhancing the cheerful and celebratory mood.

Question 2: Discuss the entry of a new stranger in the village after the invisible man’s escape from that place.

Soon after the Invisible Man’s dramatic exit from Iping, a new figure appeared in the village. The man, short and stocky in appearance, dressed in ragged clothing, was none other than Mr. Thomas Marvel. Though unfamiliar to the villagers, Marvel’s disheveled look and nervous manner quickly drew attention. He entered the Coach and Horses Inn briefly and emerged a short while later, looking somewhat satisfied. As he lingered near the yard gates with a bundle and a few books in hand, Mr. Huxter, the local shopkeeper, became suspicious of his behavior. Thinking Marvel might be attempting a theft, Huxter gave chase, shouting “Thief!” However, just as he was about to catch him, an unseen force tripped him, knocking him to the ground and leaving him unconscious. This mysterious defense strongly indicated that the Invisible Man had not left Iping entirely and was still secretly helping Marvel.

Chapter 11: The Invisible Man’s Anger

In this chapter, Dr. Cuss and Reverend Bunting are found inside the Coach and Horses Inn, carefully examining the papers and diaries left behind by the invisible man. However, they quickly discover that the documents are incomprehensible—the writing appears to be in Greek or possibly another language, and there are no diagrams or explanations to help them make sense of it. During this time, Mr. Marvel quietly allows the invisible man to enter the room, although neither Cuss nor Bunting is aware of his presence. Since they cannot see him, they assume the room is empty apart from Marvel, whom they ask to leave so they can continue their study without distraction. Once Marvel exits, Cuss and Bunting lock the door, hoping to ensure complete privacy. But their action backfires. With the door now locked, they are unknowingly trapped inside with the very man they were investigating. Suddenly, the invisible man launches a furious attack on the two, catching them completely off guard. He demands to know where his clothes and other possessions are, and becomes violent when they fail to respond. His threats escalate, and he even goes so far as to threaten their lives, making it clear that he will not tolerate anyone meddling with his personal belongings.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: Give a brief account of the investigations made by Dr. Cuss and Rev. Mr. Bunting in the room of the invisible man at Coach and Horses.

Dr. Cuss and Reverend Bunting were carefully examining the invisible man’s personal notes and diaries in his room at the Coach and Horses Inn. However, they quickly realized that the documents were impossible to understand. They contained no diagrams or illustrations and appeared to be written in Greek or some unfamiliar language, leaving the two men uncertain even about the language used. While they were occupied, Mr. Marvel quietly let the invisible man into the room. Since the man was unseen, Cuss and Bunting had no idea he was there. They simply asked Marvel to leave so they could focus on the documents and then locked the door to avoid interruptions. Unbeknownst to them, this locked room now became a trap. Suddenly, the invisible man revealed his presence with a violent outburst. He was furious that his belongings had been touched and demanded to know where his clothes and papers were. His anger quickly turned into threats of violence, leaving Dr. Cuss and Mr. Bunting terrified and at the mercy of a man they could neither see nor stop.

Chapter 12: A Scene of Chaos

Back at the Coach and Horses Inn, Teddy Henfrey and Mr. Hall overhear strange noises coming from the room previously used by the invisible man. Their curiosity draws them closer to investigate, but Mrs. Hall wrongly accuses them of trying to eavesdrop on Dr. Cuss and Reverend Bunting. Meanwhile, outside, chaos erupts when Mr. Huxter suddenly spots Mr. Marvel running away and yells “Thief!” prompting a chase. The crowd assumes Marvel is the invisible man and joins in the pursuit. However, one by one, the villagers are mysteriously knocked down, clearly showing that the invisible man is still present and actively disrupting attempts to catch Marvel. Soon after, Dr. Cuss emerges from the invisible man’s room and announces that they had been attacked and robbed of their clothes. Reverend Bunting follows, comically trying to cover himself with a newspaper. As tension grows, the invisible man unleashes his fury once again. In a rage, he begins attacking villagers and destroying property, shattering windows, cutting the telegraph wire, and causing chaos simply for the thrill of it. The terrified crowd flees, and Marvel, now desperate, wants nothing more to do with the invisible man or the madness surrounding him.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: Describe the episode of Mr. Marvel vanishing by the corner of the church wall.

Mr. Marvel was last seen running toward the church wall, pursued by Mr. Hall and two labourers. But just as they neared the corner, things took a violent turn. Mr. Hall was suddenly struck and thrown forcefully to the ground, dragging one of the labourers with him. The second labourer, also running, was tripped at the ankle by an unseen force. As the first man struggled to stand up, he was hit so hard by an invisible blow that he was knocked aside as though struck by a large animal. This sudden and brutal interference confirmed to all present that the invisible man was still nearby, actively using his unseen power to protect Marvel and escape pursuit.

Question 2: Why was Mr. Cuss shouting to hold Mr. Marvel and not to drop the parcel that he was carrying?

Amid the rising chaos, Dr. Cuss appeared outside the inn, clearly shaken. He and Reverend Bunting had been attacked inside the invisible man’s room, their clothes and belongings stolen. As Marvel fled with a bundle—likely containing the invisible man’s important items—Cuss urgently called out to stop him and ensure the parcel wasn’t dropped. He understood that the contents might include the stolen scientific documents or other valuables. Cuss tried to join the chase himself but was struck hard behind the ear by the invisible man, leaving him dazed. He managed to return to the inn, warning Reverend Bunting that the invisible man had completely lost control and could become even more dangerous.

Chapter 13: Mr. Marvel’s Loyalty Is Tested

In this chapter, Mr. Marvel finds himself trapped in a dangerous situation as the invisible man confronts him in anger. Although Marvel tries to deny it, he is accused of attempting to escape. The invisible man is especially enraged because Marvel is carrying a bundle of critical items—his scientific notes and papers—that he deems far too important to risk losing. To make matters worse, the invisible man is frustrated about the unwanted attention their recent actions in Iping have attracted. He fears that newspaper coverage will expose him further, making it harder to remain undetected. Marvel, frightened and emotionally overwhelmed, pleads to be released from his duties. He insists that he is weak, unqualified, and likely to make mistakes. He even declares that he would prefer death over continuing in such a terrifying and dangerous role. However, the invisible man refuses to listen. He becomes more threatening, warning Marvel not to test his patience. He reminds Marvel of the pain he inflicted previously and makes it clear that he is keeping close watch. Helpless and terrified, Marvel is left with no option but to follow orders and continue under the invisible man’s control.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: What attempts were made by Mr. Marvel to resign from the post of assistant of the invisible man which the invisible man declined quickly?

While on their way to Bramblehurst, Mr. Marvel tried to talk his way out of serving the invisible man. Exhausted and scared, Marvel confessed that he lacked both the strength and bravery for the job. He worried that his fear and nervousness would cause him to mess everything up. Overwhelmed by the stress of being constantly watched and threatened, he even claimed that he would rather be dead than continue helping the invisible man.

Question 2: What reaction did the invisible man give to Mr. Marvel on his pleading for resignation?

The invisible man completely dismissed Marvel’s plea. He made it clear that there was no escape and warned Marvel to stop trying. Cutting off his excuses, the invisible man reminded Marvel of the pain he had caused him earlier and threatened to do worse if he disobeyed. To make sure Marvel wouldn’t try anything again, he said he would keep a hand on his shoulder as they passed through the next village. This way, Marvel knew he was under constant surveillance and had no choice but to continue.

Chapter 14: At Port Stowe

The next morning, Mr. Marvel is spotted sitting tensely on a seaside bench in Port Stowe. While he tries to appear calm, it’s clear he’s on edge. An old sailor nearby strikes up a casual conversation, especially intrigued by the jingling sound of coins coming from Marvel’s pockets—odd for someone who appears to be a tramp. The sailor shares news he recently read in the paper about a mysterious invisible man causing mayhem. Unlike unbelievable tales from other countries, this story seems real—it has names and specific locations, making it more credible. The sailor even suggests that invisibility would be the perfect tool for a criminal, enabling theft without detection. As Marvel listens, he becomes visibly nervous and begins to glance around anxiously. Suddenly, though unseen by the sailor, the invisible man is revealed to be present. He begins threatening Marvel—perhaps with a pinch or shove—reminding him to stay silent. Marvel, now terrified, quickly retracts any suggestion that he knows about the story. He nervously calls the invisible man tale a hoax and abruptly rushes off, either in fear or being pulled away. The sailor, confused and annoyed by Marvel’s sudden shift and exit, later learns of real robberies and moving money, confirming that the invisible man had indeed been nearby all along.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: Why did the old mariner get annoyed with Mr. Marvel after the conversation on the topic of the invisible man?

While chatting at the Port Stowe harbor, the old sailor struck up a conversation with Mr. Marvel, who appeared uneasy and oddly wealthy for a man of his ragged appearance. When the sailor mentioned the recent news about an invisible man, Marvel seemed interested and almost let something slip. But as he was secretly attacked by the invisible man nearby, he quickly changed his tune and insisted the whole story was false. He then hurried off in a panic. The sailor felt misled and irritated, realizing he had wasted his time talking to someone who had pretended to know nothing while clearly hiding something.

Question 2: What unusual things were happening around Iping as heard by the old mariner?

The old sailor recounted strange stories he had heard from Iping. People saw money moving on its own through the streets, and one man was even knocked down by something invisible when he tried to grab it. Cash was reportedly disappearing mysteriously from homes and shops, drifting silently down alleyways. All the stolen money seemed to end up with Mr. Marvel, who now sat nervously at an inn in Port Stowe, unknowingly carrying the invisible man’s loot while being watched—and controlled—by the invisible thief.

Chapter 15: Dr. Kemp Observes a Chase

This chapter introduces Dr. Kemp, a scientific man who resides in a house overlooking the town of Burdock. Although his study is filled with scientific tools and research materials, Kemp appears distracted. Instead of focusing on his work, he finds himself staring out the window, watching the quiet scene below. As he gazes out, he spots a peculiar sight—a man wearing a battered high hat running wildly down the road. Kemp assumes the man is simply caught up in the invisible man hysteria that has gripped the region. Skeptical of such tales, Kemp regards the situation with amused detachment, thinking it’s just local foolishness. However, what Kemp doesn’t yet realize is that the man running is Mr. Marvel, desperately fleeing from the real invisible man. Outside, the scene quickly turns to chaos as onlookers start panicking, realizing the invisible man is indeed pursuing Marvel through the streets of Burdock.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: What did Dr. Kemp see from the window of his study?

From the window of his study, Dr. Kemp observed a man in a shabby high hat sprinting down the hillside toward Burdock. The sight seemed odd but amusing to Kemp, who assumed it was just another person overwhelmed by the spreading rumors about the invisible man. As a firm believer in science and logic, Kemp considered the whole story to be absurd and unworthy of belief. However, the reality outside was much more serious. The man running was actually Mr. Marvel, fleeing in terror from the invisible man, whose presence was causing genuine fear and chaos in the town—something Kemp had yet to realize.

Chapter 16: The Chase Continues at The Jolly Cricketers

In the bustling town of Burdock, the quiet of The Jolly Cricketers pub is suddenly shattered when Mr. Marvel rushes in, frantically seeking refuge from the invisible man who is pursuing him. The patrons, startled by his panicked entrance, are quickly convinced of the threat when a window smashes—clear evidence of the invisible man’s presence. Marvel is quickly hidden in the kitchen by the bartender, while an American visitor armed with a revolver prepares to defend the pub from the invisible intruder. However, the invisible man cleverly avoids a direct confrontation at the front entrance and instead sneaks in through the back. Inside the kitchen, chaos erupts as the invisible man grabs Marvel, dragging him toward the exit. A struggle breaks out between the invisible man and the bar’s patrons. Shots are fired, bodies are thrown, and confusion reigns. Eventually, Marvel is freed, and the invisible man appears to have been wounded or killed, according to the man with the revolver, who claims to have successfully hit the unseen attacker.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: How did Mr. Marvel escape from the grip of the invisible man inside the kitchen of the Jolly Cricketers bar?

As the situation escalated, Mr. Marvel was grabbed by the neck and pulled toward the kitchen door, causing a loud commotion of crashing pans and clanging utensils. His cries for help alerted those nearby, prompting a policeman to intervene and attempt to seize the invisible assailant. However, the officer was immediately struck in the face and knocked back. In the ensuing scuffle, a cabman and the barman joined in, grappling blindly with the invisible man. During the chaos, Marvel managed to drop to the ground and crawl away, using the confusion to slip through the legs of the struggling men and make his way to safety.

Question 2: Who was sure that he killed the invisible man?

During the struggle in the kitchen, the fight spilled into the yard behind the pub. The invisible man, still resisting capture, managed to break free, hurling a piece of broken tile as a distraction. Seizing the moment, the bearded man with the revolver fired five shots into the yard. After a brief silence, he confidently announced that he had struck the invisible man and requested a lantern to begin searching for the body. Convinced of his success, he believed the danger had finally been neutralized.

Chapter 17: Griffin Arrives at Kemp’s Home

The chapter begins with Dr. Kemp, a calm and rational scientist, spending his evening reading and reflecting on philosophical topics. His quiet night is disturbed when he hears gunshots outside and notices a gathering crowd near The Jolly Cricketers pub, suggesting that something unusual is unfolding. Later that night, while preparing for bed, Kemp discovers bloodstains on the floor and on the handle of his bedroom door. Inside his room, he is startled to find a floating, bloodstained bandage—evidence that the invisible man is inside. A voice then identifies itself as Griffin, a former college mate. Griffin, weak and wounded, explains how he came to Kemp’s house by chance after being injured during his escape. He seeks refuge and assistance from Kemp, who, though initially alarmed, listens calmly and offers support.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: Describe the meeting of the invisible man with Dr. Kemp in Kemp’s bedroom.

While preparing to sleep, Dr. Kemp hears his name being spoken by an invisible voice. The voice urges him to stay calm and reveals that it belongs to the invisible man. Kemp, in disbelief, reaches toward the sound and is startled when he feels invisible fingers gripping his hand. The voice belongs to Griffin, an old acquaintance from University College. Griffin explains that he is nearly albino and had once received a chemistry medal. As Kemp regains his composure, he offers Griffin a cigar, a drink, and clothing. Griffin accepts, and as he drinks and smokes, the outline of his invisible face becomes visible in the swirling smoke. He confesses that he is on the run, that he was shot, and that his former assistant Marvel has fled with his stolen money. Desperate and wounded, Griffin pleads for Kemp’s help.

Question 2: What unusual things did Dr. Kemp observe in his house when he came out of his study?

While heading downstairs for a drink, Kemp noticed something dark and sticky on the floor near the bottom of the stairs, which he soon realized was blood. When he returned upstairs, he saw more blood on the doorknob of his bedroom. Upon entering, he was startled to find a smear of blood on the bed and an impression in the bedding, as if someone invisible had recently been sitting there. Near the washstand, Kemp heard a slight movement. Suddenly, he saw a floating, bloodstained bandage hanging in the air. Although it was clearly tied, it appeared empty, proving the presence of an invisible man in the room and confirming Kemp’s growing suspicions.

II. CHARACTER-BASED

Question 1: Draw the character-sketch of Dr. Kemp as shown in Chapter 17.

Dr. Kemp is portrayed as a disciplined and logical man of science who lives in Port Burdock. He is calm, observant, and driven by rational thinking rather than superstition or fear. When faced with the bizarre situation of encountering an invisible man in his home, Kemp initially shows shock, but quickly regains control of his emotions. He is analytical and patient, traits that are evident as he listens to Griffin’s explanation without panicking. Despite the strange and potentially dangerous circumstances, Kemp handles the situation with reason and professionalism. His scientific mindset and composed demeanor make him a stark contrast to the impulsive and volatile Griffin.

Chapter 18: Kemp Grows Cautious

After Griffin takes over Dr. Kemp’s bedroom and falls asleep from exhaustion, Kemp is left restless and deeply troubled. Though he had promised not to betray Griffin, Kemp begins to reflect on the danger posed by the invisible man. Reading sensational news articles in the morning paper, particularly one that describes a violent chase involving Griffin, Kemp grows even more suspicious of his old acquaintance’s mental state. Convinced that Griffin might be a threat to others—and possibly unhinged—Kemp decides to quietly reach out to the local authorities. Though conflicted, he ultimately chooses public safety over personal loyalty, drafting a discreet letter to Colonel Adye. His suspicions are soon confirmed when Griffin wakes up in a rage, throwing furniture, making Kemp realize he may be running out of time.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: How did Griffin assure his safety in Kemp’s house?

Griffin, though wounded and exhausted, did not fully trust Kemp’s promise of protection. Before going to sleep, he took precautions to secure himself. He inspected both bedroom windows, opening the sashes and raising the blinds to ensure they could serve as escape routes if needed. He also took the keys to the bedroom and two connecting dressing-room doors. After Kemp quietly exited the room, Griffin locked the door from the inside, maintaining full control over the space and securing his own safety.

Question 2: How did Dr. Kemp behave on reaching his little consulting-room?

Once in his consulting-room, Dr. Kemp picked up the day’s newspapers and began reading about the chaos caused by the invisible man. One article titled “A Strange Story from Iping” caught his attention, followed by another from the St. James’ Gazette with the headline “An Entire Village in Sussex Goes Mad.” These stories disturbed him deeply, especially the mention of a tramp being violently pursued. Unable to sleep and increasingly anxious, Kemp paced his room, trying to make sense of the events. He instructed his servants to stay on the lower floors and prepare breakfast for two in the upper study. His strange behavior even led them to believe their master might be overworked or unwell. Kemp continued to anxiously await the arrival of more news, deeply preoccupied with the implications of Griffin’s presence.

Question 3: What did Dr. Kemp decide to do about the invisible man?

Though initially hesitant to break his word, Dr. Kemp grew increasingly concerned about Griffin’s mental state and the danger he posed to the public. The violent events described in the newspapers convinced him that action needed to be taken. Kemp finally sat at his desk and wrote a letter to “Colonel Adye, Port Burdock,” placing it in an envelope. His quiet decision to contact the authorities marked a turning point in the story, showing that Kemp was prepared to prioritize safety over personal loyalty.

Chapter 19: Griffin Begins His Story

This chapter marks the beginning of Griffin’s detailed personal account of how he became invisible. After displaying a fit of temper by throwing objects, Griffin calms down as Dr. Kemp, intrigued by his story, requests a full explanation. Griffin recounts his days at University College where he first studied medicine before switching to physics due to his fascination with light. Through intense, solitary research, he developed a theory of invisibility by manipulating light using reflection, refraction, and absorption. He chose not to publish his work for fear of his opportunistic professor, Mr. Oliver, stealing credit. Griffin emphasizes that his greatest discoveries were made in isolation. Eventually, he solved the puzzle of human invisibility. Frustrated with his miserable life as a poorly paid academic, he decided to turn the theory on himself. However, financial hardship led him to steal money from his father—a theft that had tragic consequences, driving his father to suicide.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: ‘The secret is out, I gather it was a secret’. What did Mr. Kemp mean by this statement and what was the object behind it?

Dr. Kemp meant that Griffin’s condition—his invisibility—was no longer hidden from the public. News had spread, and people now knew about the invisible man. Kemp used this comment to subtly push Griffin into sharing the full details of his discovery. While it may have sounded like a casual observation or warning, it was a calculated remark intended to encourage Griffin to open up and explain how he achieved invisibility.

Question 2: Which subject fascinated the invisible man and why?

Griffin, the invisible man, was most fascinated by physics, particularly the behavior of light. Although he started with medicine, his interest in optical phenomena—like reflection, refraction, and absorption—drew him toward physics. He was especially intrigued by the idea of making matter invisible by controlling how it interacted with light. This passion drove his experiments and ultimately led him to discover the method of becoming invisible.

Question 3: What do you understand by the title “Certain First Principles”, the invisible man and Mr. Kemp are discussing about?

The title “Certain First Principles” refers to the fundamental scientific concepts Griffin discusses with Kemp. These include the basic properties of light—how it bends, reflects, and is absorbed—and how these principles can be applied to make an object, or even a person, invisible. The chapter outlines the foundational science behind Griffin’s discovery, making the title fitting for a section that explores the technical groundwork of invisibility.

Question 4: Did the study of medicine and knowledge about physiology, in any way, help the invisible man in his discovery of invisibility? If yes, then explain how.

Yes, Griffin’s medical background helped him in understanding the human body, particularly the fact that much of it is composed of transparent tissues. This knowledge, combined with his physics research, allowed him to develop a practical method of turning the body invisible. By leveraging insights from both physiology and optics, he was able to apply the principles of light manipulation to human biology, successfully achieving invisibility.

II. CHARACTER-BASED

Question 1: Draw a character sketch of Mr. Oliver, the professor.

Mr. Oliver is portrayed as a professor more interested in fame than in genuine scientific inquiry. According to Griffin, Oliver had a reputation for being an opportunist who tried to claim credit for others’ discoveries. He is described as a man who acted more like a journalist than a scholar, always probing into the work of his students. Griffin distrusted him and saw him as a threat to academic integrity. This distrust was one of the reasons Griffin kept his findings secret. Oliver represents the unethical side of academia, where personal ambition can overshadow honesty and collaboration.

Chapter 20: Griffin’s Descent into Invisibility

In this chapter, Griffin continues narrating the events that led to his transformation into an invisible man. After his father’s death, he moved into a cheap boarding house in London to secretly carry out his experiments. He showed little emotion about his father’s suicide, focusing entirely on his scientific ambitions. His obsession with invisibility grew, and he began testing on objects and even a cat—though not all results were perfect. Facing suspicion from neighbors and legal threats due to animal cruelty laws, Griffin’s mental state began to unravel. He became physically exhausted, emotionally detached, and even resorted to using toxic stimulants. When confronted by his landlord and an associate, Griffin realized he needed to act fast. He secured his research by mailing coded notebooks to a safe address and began the painful process of turning himself invisible. Once fully transformed, he escaped through the window and later destroyed his room by setting it on fire to cover his tracks. Griffin believed that invisibility would grant him ultimate freedom and power, but his actions showed the growing darkness within him.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: Was the experiment on the cat a complete success? Describe.

Griffin’s experiment on the cat was mostly successful, but not entirely flawless. Although he managed to make the cat’s body invisible, the eyes remained visible due to the pigmented layer at the back of the eyes called the tapetum. This partial failure indicated that while his invisibility formula worked, it couldn’t affect certain biological structures, preventing the experiment from being deemed a total success.

Question 2: Describe how did Griffin manage to protect and secure his theory of invisibility.

To safeguard his work, Griffin recorded his discoveries in three notebooks using a complex cipher that would make them unreadable to anyone else. He then handed them over, along with his cheque book, to a tramp with instructions to post them to a mail collection center on Great Portland Street. This ensured that his work would remain confidential and recoverable, even if he had to flee or faced unexpected threats.

Question 3: What did Griffin scare initially when he saw the landlord visiting his house along with an old Polish Jew?

Griffin feared that the landlord and the old Polish Jew were there to investigate the missing cat he had experimented on. He suspected that the elderly woman who had been suspicious of his actions had reported him. At the time, anti-vivisection laws were strictly enforced, and Griffin worried that he could be prosecuted, which would jeopardize both his freedom and the secrecy of his invisibility experiments.

Question 4: Why did Griffin decide to destroy all the evidence at the house?

Realizing he couldn’t safely move or replicate his laboratory after being served an eviction notice, Griffin knew his only option was to destroy the evidence. After becoming invisible, he smashed his scientific equipment and set fire to his rented room. He believed that this was the only way to protect the secret of his experiments and erase all traces of his identity and work before anyone could discover them.

Chapter 21: The Challenges of Invisibility

In this chapter, Griffin continues sharing his experiences after becoming invisible, shedding light on the practical difficulties that accompanied his new condition. While the idea of moving unseen seemed thrilling at first, the reality proved frustrating and dangerous. Griffin faced everyday challenges, such as stumbling on stairs due to not being able to see his own feet and struggling to grip objects like door latches. Cold weather became unbearable without clothes, and to make things worse, dogs could still track him by scent. Crowds posed another risk—though people couldn’t see him, they could still feel him. On one occasion, he left muddy footprints that caught the attention of children, forcing him to take evasive actions. Snow and rain further revealed his form, and the invisibility that once symbolized freedom quickly turned into a trap. Griffin realized that he had no home to return to, having burned it down to protect his secrets, leaving him alone and vulnerable.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: Describe what did Griffin experience while getting downstairs.

Griffin found descending stairs especially difficult due to his invisibility. Since he couldn’t see his own feet, it was hard to place them accurately on each step, which caused him to stumble. He also struggled with opening and bolting doors, as handling physical objects without being able to see his own hands made even simple actions feel clumsy and frustrating.

Question 2: Why was the invisible man, Griffin fearful of dogs?

Griffin feared dogs because, unlike humans, they could detect his presence through smell and sound. While people were unable to see him, dogs could still sense and react to him, often barking or jumping toward him. Their heightened senses posed a serious threat to his secrecy, potentially exposing him in public and drawing unwanted attention.

Question 3: How did Griffin manage to stop six to seven persons from following him?

Griffin accidentally left visible footprints on some wet white steps, which led a group of curious people to begin following him. To throw them off, he cleverly changed directions several times, crossed the road repeatedly, and turned around corners to mislead them. As the moisture on his feet dried, the footprints faded. Finally, he wiped his feet clean with his hands to remove any remaining evidence, successfully escaping his pursuers.

Question 4: What left the people amazed and diverting their attention from him?

While Griffin was struggling to walk due to fatigue and pain, he suddenly panicked upon seeing a blind man, fearing that the man’s sharp senses might detect him. In a desperate move, he rushed forward and unintentionally collided with several people. The crowd was stunned by the unexplained force knocking them over, as they saw no one responsible for it. This bizarre encounter confused the bystanders and shifted their focus, allowing Griffin a moment of distraction to flee unnoticed.

Chapter 22: Shelter in a Store

In this chapter, Griffin shares with Dr. Kemp the next stage of his journey as an invisible man. Struggling through a bitter January snowstorm in London, he finds temporary refuge in a large department store named Omniums. After hiding until the store closes, he gathers food, clothing, and costume accessories to create a disguise that could help him re-enter public life unnoticed. Though the experience might sound like a fantasy, it soon turns grim. Griffin is plagued by nightmares and, the next morning, is discovered and forced to flee once more, shedding his disguise to become invisible again.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: How did Griffin plan to return to his normal self?

Caught in the middle of a snowstorm, Griffin was desperate for warmth, food, and shelter. He decided to sneak into a large department store, where he found everything he needed to pass as a normal man again. After hiding until closing time, he gathered clothing, including a hat, coat, gloves, and shoes. He also found food and, in the toy section, discovered items like false noses and spectacles to create a realistic disguise. After eating and dressing, he fell asleep among some quilts. However, when the staff arrived the next morning, he was spotted and had to discard the clothing to escape invisibly once again.

Question 2: What did Griffin see in the dream at night at Departmental Complex?

Griffin had a disturbing nightmare in which he stood beside his father’s grave. As the clergyman performed the burial service, saying “Earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust,” a voice whispered, “You also,” and he was pushed into the grave. Though he tried to resist and reach out to others, no one could see or hear him. His invisibility rendered him helpless and alone, even in death. Gravel was poured over him, and he struggled in terror until he finally woke up from the dream, shaken by its symbolic message of isolation and invisibility.

Question 3: Describe the scene at the Departmental Complex at closing time.

As the store approached closing time, it began to wind down operations. Staff guided customers to the exits, and window blinds were drawn. Employees folded clothes, returned items to shelves, and tidied up the store. Chairs were turned upside down on counters, and a cleaning crew arrived with brooms, sawdust, and buckets to sweep and mop the floors. Once everything was cleaned and organized, the store was locked, leaving the space quiet and still—an ideal hiding place for Griffin, who was waiting for his moment to emerge from the shadows.

Chapter 23: Griffin’s Growing Rage and Justification

In this chapter, Griffin continues to recount his descent into chaos after becoming invisible. While he initially seeks to create a functional disguise using wigs, masks, and costume accessories, he faces challenges when he visits a suspicious costumer shop owner. After being confronted, Griffin resorts to violence, knocking the man unconscious and stealing clothes and money. His story reveals growing anger and detachment from morality, and he begins to justify his actions by claiming that invisibility frees him from human laws. As Kemp listens, he realizes Griffin’s mind is unraveling, and any attempt to reason with him may be futile.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: How did Griffin dress himself to go out into the world as a credible figure?

Griffin collected a range of items to make himself appear normal to the public. After eating bread, cheese, and drinking brandy to regain his strength, he gathered various costume items such as a false nose, whiskers, dark glasses, scarves, a wig, and powder. He also took boots, sticking plaster, and around ten pounds in gold and coins. Using these, he dressed himself carefully, ensuring his appearance looked believable in a mirror. Though dressed convincingly, he still faced challenges like not being able to eat in public. To manage this, he claimed disfigurement and dined in a private room where he could safely remove his disguise and eat.

Question 2: Describe the thoughts of Griffin when he came out after dressing at the Costumer’s shop.

Initially, Griffin felt a sense of power and freedom. He believed his invisibility made him untouchable and capable of taking whatever he wanted without consequences. However, reality quickly hit him. Despite being able to steal and escape easily, the pleasures of life—like eating, talking, or living freely—were beyond reach. Griffin began to understand that invisibility isolated him from society, reducing him to a hidden figure rather than an empowered one. He found himself cut off from humanity, trapped by the very condition he once saw as liberating.

II. CHARACTER-BASED

Question 1: Write the character sketch of the owner of Costumer shop.

The costumer shop owner is depicted as a sharp and cautious individual with exceptional hearing. He is extremely sensitive to even the faintest disturbances in his shop and responds quickly, assuming troublemakers are behind them. When Griffin sneaks in and causes noise, the shopkeeper grows increasingly suspicious. Rather than dismissing the sounds, he carefully investigates, locking doors behind him and even arming himself with a revolver. His vigilance and defensive nature show he is not easily fooled or intimidated. Though unaware of Griffin’s invisibility, his instincts made him a serious challenge to Griffin’s plans.

Chapter 24: The Reign of Terror Begins

In this pivotal chapter, Griffin, still hiding at Dr. Kemp’s house, continues sharing his ambitions. Initially, he had planned to flee to warmer climates like South America to survive more comfortably while invisible. But after meeting Kemp, Griffin’s goals evolve. Instead of running, he now wants to dominate, proposing a violent plan called a “Reign of Terror.” He hopes to partner with Kemp, using fear and invisible assassinations to control society. Just as Griffin lays out his vision, he discovers that Kemp has alerted the authorities. Enraged, he strips off his clothes, becomes invisible, and escapes after violently confronting Kemp and the arriving men.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: What were the plans of Griffin before meeting Dr. Kemp? How did they change after they both met?

Before meeting Dr. Kemp, Griffin intended to escape to a warmer location such as South America or North Africa. His goal was to use the climate to remain invisible more comfortably, without needing clothes. He planned to board a steamer to France, travel through Spain, or possibly head to Algiers. Marvel was to accompany him and carry his money and belongings. However, after reconnecting with Kemp, Griffin’s mindset shifted dramatically. He began to believe that invisibility could be used not for hiding, but for domination. He proposed to Kemp that they join forces to initiate a “Reign of Terror”—a campaign of fear, power, and violence. With Kemp’s support, Griffin imagined himself in control, ruling through intimidation, assassination, and theft. His desire for power overtook his original plans to live quietly and escape detection.

Question 2: How did Griffin escape from Dr. Kemp’s house?

As Kemp tried to keep Griffin talking, hoping for help to arrive, Griffin noticed approaching footsteps and grew suspicious. Realizing he had been betrayed, he shouted at Kemp, calling him a traitor. In a flash, Griffin began removing his clothes to vanish once again. Kemp attempted to trap him inside the study by locking the door, but the key slipped out, giving Griffin an opening. When Colonel Adye and two others reached the landing, Griffin launched into a furious attack. He seized Kemp, threw him to the floor, and knocked down Adye mid-staircase. The empty robe that Griffin had been wearing landed on Kemp, revealing his escape. In the chaos, Griffin fled the house, fully invisible and furious, leaving behind a trail of violence and fear.

Chapter 25: Planning the Pursuit of the Invisible Man

After Griffin’s violent escape from Dr. Kemp’s house, Kemp meets with Colonel Adye to discuss the next steps. Kemp strongly believes that Griffin has become completely devoid of human emotion and morality, describing him as a threat that must be dealt with swiftly. Drawing from Griffin’s own revelations during their earlier conversation, Kemp outlines a strategy to track and capture the invisible man, using both tactical and psychological approaches. Kemp argues that they must wear Griffin down by keeping him constantly moving, denying him food, rest, and shelter. He also suggests mobilizing the countryside, alerting officials, and using bloodhounds to track him by scent. One of his most extreme suggestions involves scattering powdered glass on the roads to injure Griffin’s bare feet. Although Colonel Adye finds this method inhumane, Kemp insists that Griffin no longer deserves ethical treatment due to his violent and remorseless actions.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: What measures need to be taken to prevent the invisible man from leaving the district of Burdock?

Dr. Kemp advised a comprehensive and strategic approach to prevent the invisible man, Griffin, from escaping the Burdock district. He emphasized maintaining continuous pressure by ensuring Griffin receives no rest or food. All possible shelters, homes, and storage places should be locked and guarded. Kemp proposed that the entire region be mobilized, with constant patrolling and searches throughout the countryside. He also recommended involving transportation authorities. Railway officials and other transit workers should be notified immediately so that all travel routes—especially train stations—are carefully monitored, making it difficult for Griffin to leave unnoticed. This thorough and persistent pressure, Kemp believed, would wear Griffin down and force him into making mistakes.

Question 2: What inhuman things did Dr. Kemp advise Adye to do in order to catch the invisible man in any case?

To catch Griffin at any cost, Dr. Kemp proposed several drastic measures that many would consider inhumane. He suggested using dogs, particularly bloodhounds, to track Griffin by scent since his invisibility made him undetectable to the human eye. Additionally, Kemp explained that Griffin would be temporarily visible after eating, as food remains visible in the stomach before digestion, making him vulnerable during meals. One of Kemp’s more controversial suggestions was to scatter powdered glass on roads and footpaths. This would injure Griffin’s bare feet and possibly slow him down or leave a trail. Colonel Adye objected to this, calling it unsportsmanlike and unethical. However, Kemp defended his position by arguing that Griffin had already forsaken all morality and humanity, and thus, any means of stopping him—even harsh ones—were justified.

Chapter 26: The Hunt Intensifies and a Murder Shocks the Town

Following Griffin’s escape from Dr. Kemp’s house, a region-wide manhunt was launched to capture the invisible man. By early afternoon, the area surrounding Port Burdock was transformed into a heavily guarded zone. Passenger train services were halted, goods transport was restricted, and armed search parties patrolled every road and field with dogs trained to detect scent. Mounted police moved from village to village, advising people to stay indoors, lock their homes, and be cautious. By the end of the day, a formal proclamation signed by Colonel Adye was posted throughout the area, urging the public to remain alert and ensure the invisible man could not find shelter or food. Despite these efforts, Griffin still managed to find rest and nourishment, proving just how elusive he remained. Amidst this chaos, tragedy struck. Mr. Wicksteed, a gentle and respected steward of Lord Burdock, was found murdered near a gravel pit. Witness accounts suggested he might have unknowingly provoked the invisible man by reacting to strange, unseen movements near a damaged fence. His brutal death shocked the community, serving as a grim reminder of how dangerous Griffin had become.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: Why was it impossible for Griffin to have removed himself out of the district after two o’clock in the afternoon?

By 2 PM, a region-wide lockdown was enforced to contain Griffin. Authorities had already taken decisive steps—passenger train doors were locked, and most transport of goods was suspended. Armed search parties of three to four men, accompanied by scent-tracking dogs, were stationed across roads and fields throughout a 20-mile radius around Port Burdock. Mounted officers were dispatched to rural paths and villages, advising people to stay inside with doors locked. Kemp had also instructed authorities to ensure all entry and exit routes were blocked. A proclamation from Colonel Adye circulated across the region by late afternoon, reinforcing the emergency and instructing everyone to prevent the invisible man from resting or eating. With such extensive and coordinated precautions, it became virtually impossible for Griffin to escape the district undetected.

Question 2: Give a brief account of the murder of Mr. Wicksteed.

Mr. Wicksteed, a respected steward of Lord Burdock, became an unfortunate victim of Griffin’s growing violence. Despite the massive manhunt, Wicksteed was unaware of the invisible man’s threat. While returning home for lunch, he wandered from his usual route and was seen by a schoolgirl near a gravel pit. According to her account, he appeared to be swinging his walking stick at something unseen—likely reacting to an invisible disturbance caused by Griffin. The weapon used in the murder was an iron rod torn from a nearby fence, suggesting Griffin used it to attack. Wicksteed was brutally beaten to death, with no chance to defend himself against the invisible force. His death highlighted how unpredictable and lethal Griffin had become, and reinforced the urgency of capturing him before more innocent lives were lost.

Chapter 27: The Siege of Kemp’s House

This chapter marks a turning point in Griffin’s transformation from a desperate fugitive into a self-proclaimed tyrant. Griffin sends a chilling letter to Dr. Kemp, claiming that the town of Port Burdock now belongs to him under “The Terror,” and declares it “Day One of the Invisible Man’s Epoch.” He threatens to kill Kemp that very day, ironically making Kemp pay for the postage on the death threat. Kemp reacts swiftly—securing the house, arming himself, and sending a message to Colonel Adye, offering to act as bait in a trap for Griffin. But Griffin intercepts the messenger, learns of the plan, and begins his siege by smashing windows in Kemp’s home. Adye arrives, borrows Kemp’s revolver, and heads out to summon help, but is ambushed by Griffin. A gunshot follows their struggle, leaving Adye’s fate uncertain. Two policemen, brought by Kemp’s housemaid, enter just as Griffin begins hacking at the shutters with an axe. Kemp arms them with pokers, and a fierce confrontation ensues. One officer is struck down, but the other wounds Griffin, causing a bone to break. Injured, Griffin flees once again, while Kemp and his housemaid vanish, leaving the officers behind.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: Describe the encounter that took place between Griffin and Colonel Adye.

Colonel Adye came to Kemp’s house in response to a warning note. Upon seeing the threatening letter from Griffin, they heard glass shattering upstairs—proof that Griffin was near. Adye took Kemp’s revolver and set off to get help, planning to return with bloodhounds. However, before reaching the gate, Adye was halted by Griffin’s invisible voice, which demanded that he turn back. Adye attempted to shoot toward the sound but was overpowered—Griffin struck him and took the revolver. Griffin then ordered Adye to return to the house, but Adye turned suddenly and tried to reclaim the weapon. In the ensuing struggle, he fell, and a shot rang out. Adye managed to rise slightly before collapsing again, motionless, leaving his fate in suspense.

Question 2: How did the two policemen face the invisible man at Dr. Kemp’s house?

After hearing the violent sounds of Griffin attempting to break in, the two policemen—equipped only with pokers—moved toward the disturbance in the dining room. As Griffin struck at the door with an axe, one officer intercepted it with his poker, while the other struck it, causing it to fall. A voice declared, “I want that man Kemp,” and the first officer moved toward the source. Griffin retaliated with a powerful blow, knocking him unconscious. The second officer then swung his poker toward where the voice had come from, striking something soft and causing a loud snap—Griffin had likely been injured. With Griffin now hurt, his axe dropped. The officer stepped on it, struck again, and moments later, the window burst open. Footsteps followed, indicating that Griffin had escaped, fleeing once more into the night.

Chapter 28: The End of the Invisible Man

This chapter concludes the dramatic saga of Griffin, the Invisible Man. The point of view shifts to Mr. Heelas, Dr. Kemp’s neighbor, who had previously dismissed the idea of an invisible man as absurd. However, when he sees Kemp fleeing in terror from his own home—windows shattered, chaos unfolding—he realizes the terrifying truth. As Kemp runs toward him, Heelas locks himself inside, refusing to open the door. The chase continues as Kemp sprints through his garden and down the hill toward Port Burdock. The road is eerily empty, and no one dares help him—until he encounters a group of road workers (navvies). Kemp shouts that the invisible man is after him, and the workers quickly grab tools to defend him. Just as Griffin reaches Kemp and grabs hold of him, the workers strike back. A fierce and chaotic struggle ensues. Griffin cries out for “Mercy! Mercy!” but his pleas are soon silenced. By the time Kemp orders the crowd to stop, Griffin is dead. A crowd gathers around the body. In death, Griffin slowly becomes visible again—first his hands and feet, then the bones, arteries, muscles, and finally, his bruised and battered face. His lifeless, naked form is covered by the onlookers—a tragic symbol of a brilliant mind destroyed by isolation, ambition, and moral downfall.

I. PLOT/THEME-BASED

Question 1: How did Mr. Heelas believe the existence of the invisible man in the village?

Mr. Heelas initially dismissed the idea of an invisible man as fantasy. However, he was startled awake when he noticed every window of Dr. Kemp’s house had been smashed. Moments later, he saw Kemp’s housemaid struggling at the window, followed by Kemp himself leaping out and running in terror. As Kemp raced downhill toward his home, Mr. Heelas suddenly realized that Kemp was being chased by the invisible man. Overcome with fear, Heelas ordered everyone inside his house to lock all doors and windows, afraid that Kemp might bring the unseen threat with him.

Question 2: How did the invisible man, Mr. Griffin, meet his end?

Griffin met his tragic end during a desperate chase through the streets of Burdock. As he closed in on Dr. Kemp, the latter warned some nearby workers of the invisible man’s presence. The workers quickly armed themselves with tools and stood ready. As Griffin grabbed Kemp, the workers attacked, beating Griffin with all their strength. The struggle resembled a wild brawl, with kicks and blows raining down on the unseen attacker. Griffin’s cries of “Mercy!” turned into choking silence. By the time Kemp called for the crowd to stop, Griffin was already dead. Onlookers watched in awe as his body gradually became visible, starting from the extremities and progressing to the full figure. His broken, battered form lay exposed, a haunting image of a man destroyed by his own invention and unchecked ambition.