The Invisible Man · Chapter
Dr. Kemp's Visitor explained
Dr.
What happens
Dr. Kemp is visited by the Invisible Man, who reveals himself as Griffin, a former acquaintance from University College. Griffin explains his condition and seeks Kemp's help, while Kemp grapples with the reality of invisibility and the danger it presents.
Themes in this chapter
Science and Ethics
Griffin's invisibility is presented as a scientific achievement, but his subsequent actions raise questions about the moral responsibilities of scientific discovery.
Isolation and Alienation
Griffin's invisibility isolates him from society, forcing him to seek help from Kemp while expressing paranoia and exhaustion.
Fear of the Unknown
Kemp's initial disbelief and horror at the invisible man's presence highlight the fear of the unknown and the supernatural.
Characters to notice
- Dr. Kemp
Kemp is shocked but gradually accepts the reality of the Invisible Man, offering him shelter and food while trying to understand the situation.
- Griffin
Griffin reveals his identity to Kemp, explaining his invisibility and his desperate need for help, while expressing anger towards Marvel for stealing his money.
Key passages
“I am Griffin, of University College, and I have made myself invisible. I am just an ordinary man—a man you have known—made invisible.”
Griffin reveals his true identity to Kemp, explaining that he is the same person Kemp knew from university, now rendered invisible through his own scientific work.
This moment establishes Griffin's identity and the scientific basis of his invisibility.
“Keep steady, Kemp, for God's sake! I want help badly. Stop!”
Griffin urges Kemp to remain calm and not panic, emphasizing his urgent need for assistance.
Griffin's plea shows his desperation and the precariousness of his situation.
“I'm lucky to have fallen upon you, Kemp. You must help me. Fancy tumbling on you just now! I'm in a devilish scrape—I've been mad, I think.”
Griffin expresses relief at encountering Kemp and admits he has been acting irrationally due to his circumstances.
Griffin acknowledges his own instability and seeks Kemp's cooperation.