The concept of "the other" describes something that is different or unknown to us which deviates from the normal group. In modern society, this title is given to those who are physically or socially different from the status quo. Those who vary from what is considered the norm, perhaps physically or intellectually, are instantly subject to discrimination. The concept can also be found in literature, such as in the form of the extraterrestrials in Wells' "War of the Worlds." Although Wells' description of the alien invasion is fictional, the attitudes are reflective of those in our society today. Many people still have prejudices against those whose beliefs or cultures differ from their own. Similar sentiments toward "the other" can be seen in the past as well, such as in Hitler's treatment of the Jews. Through the reactions of Wells' characters to the extraterrestrials and Hitler's opinions during the Second World War, one can further understand the idea of "the other." .
In Wells' "War of the Worlds," the notion of "the other" is explored in the form of an extraterrestrial invasion of Earth. Initially, "the other" can be understood through the narrator's perception of what is normal. At first, astronomers are unconcerned about a series of flashes in the night sky, as they are perceived to be relatively harmless. However, these views change after one of the meteors strikes the Earth, resulting in man's first encounter with the Martians. The narrator recounts how "everyone expected to see a man emerge -- possibly something a little unlike. terrestrial men but in all essentials a man" (Wells 19). By voicing the expectations of the present audience through the speaker, Wells establishes Earth's lack of knowledge of the Martians, and what is considered the status quo. Previously, humans have never contemplated seriously the possibility of otherworldly beings that might be vastly different from themselves.