H.G. Wells was a visionary...
Well was really good at foreshadowing how advances in science and technology could ultimately lead to the devolution of mankind. The book was written as a warning.In 1896 when he wrote the book, the idea of full scientific genetic manipulation with was highly speculative and radical theory. But it was being discussed in scientific circles at that time.In response to your questions:
First, That is the basic idea behind Gene Therapy. She was getting constant injections to stay in the human form.Second, it was more about playing god then proving to his peers that he could start his own freak show. He had been shunned enough by the establishment and move to a remote island already. Not just because it was conducive to his research, but the type of experimentation he was doing was morally reprehensible. That is why the mercenary stayed drunk all the time. Screwing around with nature in that manner is just not right. Last question, I believe that maria was a large feline like a black panther.   See 2 other replies