The Invisible Man · Chapter
The Wicksteed Murder explained
After fleeing Kemp's house in a blind fury, the invisible man disappears for several hours, during which the countryside mobilizes against him following Kemp's proclamation.
What happens
After fleeing Kemp's house in a blind fury, the invisible man disappears for several hours, during which the countryside mobilizes against him following Kemp's proclamation. He resurfaces in the afternoon, murdering Mr. Wicksteed with an iron rod in a seemingly senseless attack near a gravel pit. The chapter explores possible motives for the murder and describes the growing manhunt, as the invisible man becomes a hunted fugitive, losing heart for nearly twenty-four hours before regaining his resolve.
Themes in this chapter
Madness and Descent
Griffin's murder of Wicksteed is described as a 'murderous frenzy,' suggesting a descent into madness driven by rage and despair.
Isolation and Alienation
Griffin becomes a hunted fugitive, isolated from society and forced to hide, reflecting his complete alienation.
Fear of the Unknown
The invisible man's unseen presence terrifies the countryside, leading to a widespread, fearful response.
Characters to notice
- Griffin
Flees Kemp's house in a blind fury, later murders Mr. Wicksteed with an iron rod, and becomes a hunted fugitive.
- Dr. Kemp
Issues a proclamation (signed by Adye) that mobilizes the countryside against the invisible man.
- Colonel Adye
Signs Kemp's proclamation, which is posted across the district.
- Mr. Wicksteed
A steward to Lord Burdock, murdered by the invisible man near a gravel pit.
Key passages
“The invisible man seems to have rushed out of Kemp’s house in a state of blind fury.”
Griffin fled Kemp's home in a rage, unable to think clearly.
Describes Griffin's emotional state after Kemp's betrayal.
“He stopped this quiet man, going quietly home to his midday meal, attacked him, beat down his feeble defences, broke his arm, felled him, and smashed his head to a jelly.”
Griffin ambushed the peaceful Mr. Wicksteed, overpowered him, and killed him brutally.
Details the violent murder of Wicksteed.
“For that day at least he lost heart; for nearly twenty-four hours, save when he turned on Wicksteed, he was a hunted man.”
Griffin was demoralized and spent most of the day as a fugitive, except for the moment he attacked Wicksteed.
Highlights Griffin's temporary loss of resolve.