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'The Martian invasion changes human society for the worse' - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 6 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 6
'The Martian invasion changes human society for the worse'. How far do you agree with this view? Explore at least two moments from the novel to support your ideas.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'The Martian invasion changes human society for the worse' - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 6 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explore the impact on social structures
Answer
The Martian invasion leads to a significant breakdown of social hierarchies and norms. In the novel, one moment highlighting this change occurs when the Martians first arrive and the initial awe and curiosity shift to panic and chaos. This moment showcases how quickly individuals can abandon their societal roles in the face of an existential threat. The weakness of societal constructs is revealed, as individuals prioritize survival over allegiance to social order.
Furthermore, the response of various societal classes during the invasion illustrates the disintegration of previously held beliefs about humanity’s superiority. The Martians’ advance forces people to reconsider their places in society, leading to a temporary unity against a common enemy. This suggests that while the invasion does change society, it also serves to highlight human resilience.
Step 2
Examine the loss of moral values
Answer
Another significant moment is when characters resort to inhumane actions during the crisis. The fear instilled by the Martians drives some individuals to abandon their moral compass, leading to acts of betrayal and violence among humans. For example, looting and mob behavior reflect the chaos that the invasion instigates, suggesting a deterioration of civilization into primal instincts when faced with overwhelming fear. This moment underlines the idea that the Martian invasion not only challenges societal norms but also exposes the fragility of human ethics, arguing strongly that the invasion changes human society for the worse.