Final answer:
In H.G. Wells' novel The Time Machine, the future is depicted as a divided society with two distinct species. It is different from our present in terms of social structure and the decayed state of the world. However, there are also similarities in the role of technology and the presence of social issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
In H.G. Wells' novel The Time Machine, the future depicted is different from our present in several ways. Firstly, in Wells' version of the future, humanity has evolved into two distinct species: the Eloi and the Morlocks. The Eloi are a gentle, childlike race that live above ground and enjoy a life of leisure, while the Morlocks are cannibalistic creatures who live underground and serve as the laborers for the Eloi. This stark division of society based on class and physical differences is not present in our present. Additionally, the world of the future is desolate and decayed, with crumbling buildings and little signs of civilization, which is a stark contrast to our present where cities and technology continue to thrive.
Despite these differences, Wells' version of the future also shares some similarities with our present. For example, technology plays a significant role in both the future and our present. In the novel, the Time Traveler himself invents a time machine, showcasing the human fascination with technological advancement. Similarly, in our present, we rely heavily on technology for communication, transportation, and entertainment. Furthermore, the themes of class division and societal decay depicted in Wells' future are issues that still exist in our present, albeit in different forms. The novel prompts readers to consider the consequences of an unchecked gap between the rich and poor, and the potential consequences of societal decline if we neglect to address pressing issues.