"The Time Machine" explores the consequences of extreme social stratification. The Eloi represent the upper class, living in comfort but becoming weak and dependent, while the Morlocks symbolize the oppressed working class, forced to live underground and resort to predation. This theme serves as a critique of the social inequalities present in Victorian England and raises questions about the future of human society.

The novel delves into the concept of time travel and its implications on human progress. The Time Traveller's journey to the future reveals a world where technological advancements have not led to a utopian society but rather to a dystopian reality. This theme challenges the notion that progress is inherently positive and encourages readers to reflect on the direction of human development.

Through the depiction of the Eloi and Morlocks, "The Time Machine" highlights the fragility of human civilization. The Eloi's decline into passivity and the Morlocks' descent into savagery illustrate how easily societal structures can collapse. This theme underscores the importance of maintaining a balance between technological advancement and social cohesion to ensure the survival of civilization.