Comparing and Contrasting Two Versions of The War of the Worlds — Quiz
Question 30 • English Language Arts 12
Consider these versions of The War of the Worlds. Excerpt 1, from H. G. Wells's novel The War of the Worlds: "Henderson," he called, "you saw that shooting star last night?" "Well?" said Henderson. "It's out on Horsell Common now." "Good Lord!" said Henderson. "Fallen meteorite! That's good." "But it's something more than a meteorite. It's a cylinder—an artificial cylinder, man! And there’s something inside." Excerpt 2, from Howard E. Koch's script for Orson Welles's radio adaptation: WILMUTH: I seen a kinda greenish streak and then zingo! Somethin' smacked the ground. Knocked me clear out of my chair! PHILLIPS: Well, were you frightened, Mrs. Wilmuth? MRS. WILMUTH: Well, I—I ain't quite sure. I reckon I—I was kinda riled. PHILLIPS: Thank you, Mr. Wilmuth. Thank you. Which statement best describes the similarity between these versions?
Answer
A
Both versions show friendships developing during the crisis.
B
Both versions cite expert testimony.
C
Both versions explain scientific terms.
D
Both versions share the impressions of local residents.
Explanation
Both excerpts show how people nearby react to the strange object. In the novel, Henderson responds with surprise and calls it a fallen meteorite; in the radio script, Mr. and Mrs. Wilmuth describe seeing it land and feeling shaken. Their reactions are impressions of local residents, not scientific explanations or expert testimony.
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