Referring to what’s wrongly believed to be a meteorite, “The Falling Star” is the title of Chapter 2 of this 1898 novel

The Final Jeopardy clue for Monday, June 2, 2025, came from the category “Science Fiction.” Contestants were challenged with the following: “Referring to what’s wrongly believed to be a meteorite, ‘The Falling Star’ is the title of Chapter 2 of this 1898 novel.”

What is The War of the Worlds?

This classic science fiction novel by H.G. Wells was first published in 1898 and is widely regarded as one of the earliest and most influential examples of alien invasion literature. In The War of the Worlds, the second chapter is titled “The Falling Star,” a reference to the initial appearance of what observers at the time assumed was a meteor crashing to Earth. However, the so-called “falling star” turns out to be something far more ominous—a cylindrical spacecraft from Mars carrying hostile extraterrestrial lifeforms.

Understanding the Clue and Its Context

The clue hinges on a pivotal moment early in Wells’ narrative. When the Martian cylinder crashes into the English countryside, it is initially mistaken for a natural astronomical event. This false assumption reflects not only the limits of human understanding at the time but also a theme that Wells explores throughout the book—humanity’s vulnerability in the face of superior intelligence and technology.

Chapter 2, titled “The Falling Star,” sets the stage for the unfolding chaos. The public’s misinterpretation of the object’s origin creates a dangerous delay in reaction, allowing the Martians to establish a foothold before any effective resistance can be mounted. Wells uses this moment to highlight the fragility of human dominance and to question the assumption that Earth is invulnerable to outside threats.

Wells’ Contribution to Science Fiction

H.G. Wells’ The War of the Worlds helped define the genre of science fiction, introducing ideas that would later become genre staples, such as alien invasions, interplanetary warfare, and advanced extraterrestrial technologies. The novel has influenced generations of writers, filmmakers, and scientists, and remains relevant more than a century later due to its exploration of colonialism, technological arrogance, and survival.

By using the perspective of an ordinary narrator caught in extraordinary events, Wells brings the terror of the Martian invasion into sharp focus. His detailed descriptions of the Martians’ heat-ray weapons and towering tripods made a lasting impact, not only in literature but also in popular culture. The novel’s early chapters, particularly “The Falling Star,” mark the beginning of that transformation from the ordinary to the catastrophic.

Why This Clue Matters

The clue offers a glimpse into how a single misunderstood event—what seemed like a meteor—can serve as the catalyst for a larger commentary on human assumptions. It’s a reminder of how fiction can mirror the real world’s uncertainties. In Wells’ time, scientific discovery and industrial advancement were surging, and the idea that an alien force could render humanity powerless was both thrilling and terrifying.

This Final Jeopardy clue also highlights how closely tied chapter titles can be to a book’s themes. “The Falling Star” is not just a narrative element; it’s a metaphor for humanity’s fall from its perceived place of supremacy. In a broader sense, it reflects Wells’ skepticism toward the British Empire’s dominance and the idea that no civilization is beyond challenge.

Conclusion

The War of the Worlds remains a cornerstone of science fiction, and the clue from June 2’s episode cleverly spotlighted a key moment from the novel. By referencing “The Falling Star,” Jeopardy reminded viewers of the lasting impact of Wells’ work and the power of literature to frame existential questions in imaginative ways. Contestants who recognized the novel’s publication date and chapter title structure had the edge in identifying the right response.