Julian West, the narrator of this novel, was born into a wealthy aristocratic family in 19th century Boston. An insomniac, he built a sleeping chamber beneath his house to block out the various loud or distracting noises of the city streets. One night, a skilled mesmerist named Doctor Pillsbury assisted him in falling asleep. Julian’s house burns down while he was asleep, but is protected by his underground chamber. At the time, he was assumed to have died in the fire. A century later, Julian is discovered by Doctor Leete, who was preparing the site for the construction of a laboratory. Julian did not age at all due to being in suspended animation. He found himself in an entirely new and different world; this world no war and no poverty. With the help of Doctor Leete, Julian learns how these problems and conflicts were solved. Leete explains to him that the economy is based on the public instead of private capital. In comparison to the 19th century, the new world is an astonishing utopia to Julian. Everyone lives with higher standards, technology is more advanced, and the economy is much more efficient than the one that Julian was used to.
A question to consider: What would the world seem like to us if we went back in time from 2018 to 1887?
If someone from our society went back to the year 1887 I believe they would be disappointed. Our society has more vastly more equality, opportunity and technological advancements than that of any 19th century society. Progression is the natural result of time passing as people are able to identify negative aspects of society, and eliminate them.
I agree, there is no doubt that someone from our society would be disappointed with the year 1887. The living standards in the U.S. has exponentially grown from the late 1800’s to now; this is proven by the exponential increase in GDP per capita. A modern-day citizen would be disappointed with the poor medical treatment, transportation ability, communication methods and large wealth gap.
I think people take it for granted how lucky we are in todays society. Our world has become more advanced with equality, opportunity, and technology. Society in the nineteenth century was vastly different and limiting. If someone from our society went back to 1887 they would feel more appreciative with what they have.
I think another thing to consider about going back in time to 1887 would be the lack of communication. We are so used to being in contact with family and friends at any point in the day in addition to having the ability to use the internet. If someone from our time went back to 1887, they may be completely lost, unable to use their phone to contact others or find their way around.