"The Sleeper Awakes" is a dystopian science fiction novel by H.G. Wells, first published in 1899. The story follows Graham, a man who falls into a deep sleep in the late 19th century and awakens two centuries later in a radically transformed world.
Graham, an insomniac, takes a sleeping draught and inexplicably falls into a coma-like state, from which he does not awaken for 203 years. During his prolonged slumber, his investments compound, and he becomes the wealthiest individual in the world, inadvertently gaining control over a vast financial empire that governs the future society.
Upon awakening, Graham finds himself in a technologically advanced yet socially stratified society. He learns that his immense fortune has made him the de facto ruler, with his trustees managing the world in his name. This future world is dominated by a ruling class that oppresses the masses, who live in poverty and squalor.
Graham is initially bewildered by the new world, but he gradually becomes aware of the social injustices and the extent of the control exerted by his trustees. A revolutionary group, hoping to overthrow the oppressive regime, sees Graham as a symbol of hope and seeks to align with him.
As Graham navigates this new world, he becomes a central figure in the struggle for freedom and justice. He grapples with the moral implications of his unintended legacy and the responsibilities thrust upon him. The novel explores themes of power, societal control, and the potential consequences of technological advancement.
"The Sleeper Awakes" is a thought-provoking tale that delves into the complexities of a future dystopia, raising questions about authority, wealth, and the ethical use of technology. Wells' vivid imagination and incisive commentary on social issues create a compelling narrative that continues to resonate with readers today.