'When the Sleeper Wakes' (1899) by H G Wells

'When the Sleeper Wakes' is a dystopian novel that explores themes of social upheaval, technological progress, and class struggle. It tells the story of Graham, a man from the 19th century who falls into a deep, unnatural sleep and awakens over two hundred years later in a radically changed world.

The story begins with Graham, a man troubled by insomnia, eventually succumbing to a mysterious sleep. He remains in a comatose state for centuries, during which time his investments grow to enormous wealth, making him the de facto owner of much of the world's economy. When he finally awakens, he finds himself in the year 2100, in a world transformed by technology, urbanization, and social stratification.

Graham discovers that he has become a legendary figure, known as "The Sleeper," and is revered almost like a myth. However, his vast wealth and influence have been managed by a powerful council that has used his resources to shape society in their favor. The world he finds is a rigidly controlled oligarchy, where a small elite wields absolute power over the working masses, who live under harsh conditions in massive, industrialized cities.

As Graham tries to understand this new world, he becomes involved with a revolutionary movement that seeks to overthrow the oppressive regime. The rebels view Graham as a symbol of hope and a potential leader who could challenge the ruling class. He learns of the struggles and suffering of the lower classes, as well as the technological advancements that have made life both wondrous and dystopian, with flying machines, surveillance, and vast urban landscapes.

Initially manipulated by both the council and the revolutionaries, Graham eventually takes a more active role in the conflict, becoming a central figure in the fight for freedom. As the rebellion gains momentum, Graham struggles with his own sense of displacement, the responsibilities thrust upon him, and the moral complexities of revolution.

The novel reaches its climax with a dramatic showdown between the rebels and the forces of the council. Amidst the chaos of the uprising, Graham witnesses the destruction and violence that accompany the struggle for change. He ultimately faces the question of whether the new world born from revolution will truly bring about a better society or simply replace one form of tyranny with another.

When the Sleeper Wakes explores the tension between utopian aspirations and the reality of social control, as well as the ethical dilemmas faced by those seeking change. Through Graham’s story, H.G. Wells critiques the idea of progress as an unqualified good, questioning what happens when technological advancements outpace moral development. The novel is both a warning about the dangers of unchecked power and a reflection on the challenges of adapting to a future that is both familiar and profoundly alien.