The Humans By Matt Haig: Character Analysis

Let's dive into the fascinating world of Matt Haig's The Humans and explore the characters that make this novel so unique and thought-provoking. The Humans is a story that blends science fiction with profound insights into human nature, told through the eyes of an alien who comes to Earth and inhabits the body of a Cambridge mathematics professor. This sets the stage for a compelling exploration of what it means to be human, viewed from an outsider's perspective. Understanding the characters is key to unlocking the deeper themes of the book, such as the value of love, the absurdity of social norms, and the beauty in everyday moments. So, grab your reading glasses, and let’s get started!

Professor Andrew Martin (The Alien)

At the heart of The Humans is Professor Andrew Martin, or rather, the alien who inhabits his body. Initially, the alien arrives on Earth with a mission: to eliminate anyone who knows about Andrew's groundbreaking mathematical proof, which poses a threat to his species. However, as he spends time living as Andrew, he begins to question his mission and develop a complex understanding of humanity. His initial observations are marked by confusion and disdain. He struggles to comprehend human behaviors, from their obsession with material possessions to their complicated relationships. He finds their capacity for violence and irrationality particularly baffling. One of the most humorous aspects of the novel is the alien's struggle to fit in. He has trouble with basic human interactions, often saying the wrong things and misinterpreting social cues. His attempts to understand human customs, like eating and drinking, lead to some hilarious and insightful moments. For example, he develops an addiction to sugar, which he sees as a way to experience pleasure, something he was never able to do in his previous life. As the story progresses, the alien begins to experience emotions for the first time. He develops a deep affection for Andrew's wife, Isobel, and his son, Gulliver. He starts to appreciate the simple joys of human life, such as reading poetry, listening to music, and spending time with loved ones. This emotional transformation is the core of the novel's message: that despite their flaws, humans are capable of great love, kindness, and creativity. The alien's journey is one of self-discovery, as he learns what it truly means to be human. By the end of the novel, he has completely transformed, rejecting his original mission and choosing to protect the family he has come to love. This character’s evolution offers a powerful commentary on the human condition, suggesting that even an outsider can find beauty and meaning in our messy, complicated lives. The Humans challenges us to see ourselves through new eyes, appreciating the small moments and connections that make life worth living.

Isobel Martin

Isobel Martin is Andrew's wife, and she plays a crucial role in the story. She is portrayed as intelligent, compassionate, and perceptive. From the beginning, Isobel senses that something is different about Andrew after the alien takes over his body. She notices subtle changes in his behavior, his mannerisms, and his overall demeanor. While she is initially confused and concerned, she gradually becomes intrigued by the new version of her husband. Isobel is a complex character who is dealing with her own struggles. She is a writer who feels unfulfilled in her career, and she is also grappling with the challenges of raising a teenage son. Her relationship with the real Andrew was strained before the alien arrived, and she had begun to question their future together. However, as she gets to know the alien inhabiting Andrew's body, she begins to see him in a new light. She appreciates his honesty, his vulnerability, and his genuine affection for her and Gulliver. The alien, in turn, is drawn to Isobel's intelligence, her kindness, and her ability to see the good in others. He admires her strength and her resilience, and he is grateful for her acceptance of him, despite his strange behavior. Isobel's character highlights the themes of love, acceptance, and second chances. Her willingness to embrace the new Andrew, despite the confusion and uncertainty, shows her capacity for love and her belief in the possibility of change. She represents the best of humanity, offering compassion and understanding to someone who is struggling to find his place in the world. Isobel's journey is one of self-discovery as well. Through her interactions with the alien, she learns more about herself, her desires, and her values. She realizes that she is capable of finding happiness and fulfillment, even in the most unexpected circumstances. Her relationship with the alien helps her to appreciate the beauty of human connection and the importance of living in the moment. Ultimately, Isobel's character is a testament to the power of love and the resilience of the human spirit. She is a strong, independent woman who is willing to take risks and embrace the unknown, and she serves as an inspiration to those around her.

Gulliver Martin

Gulliver Martin, Andrew and Isobel's teenage son, adds another layer of depth to The Humans. He is a typical teenager, struggling with identity, self-esteem, and the pressures of school. Gulliver is often misunderstood by his parents, who are preoccupied with their own problems. He feels isolated and alone, and he struggles to connect with his peers. One of the key aspects of Gulliver's character is his intelligence and his passion for literature. He is a gifted writer and a voracious reader, finding solace and escape in books. He is particularly drawn to science fiction and fantasy, which allows him to explore different worlds and imagine new possibilities. When the alien takes over Andrew's body, Gulliver is initially suspicious and confused. He notices that his father is acting differently, but he doesn't understand why. However, as he spends more time with the alien, he begins to see a different side of his father. The alien is more attentive, more interested in his life, and more willing to listen to his problems. The alien, in turn, is fascinated by Gulliver's intelligence and his creativity. He encourages Gulliver to pursue his passions and to believe in himself. He sees Gulliver's potential and wants to help him succeed. Gulliver's character highlights the importance of communication and understanding between parents and children. His struggles with his parents reflect the challenges that many teenagers face as they try to assert their independence and find their place in the world. The alien's presence in his life helps him to feel more understood and more valued, and it encourages him to embrace his unique talents. Gulliver's journey is one of self-discovery and growth. Through his interactions with the alien, he learns to believe in himself and to pursue his dreams. He also learns the importance of family and the value of human connection. Ultimately, Gulliver's character is a reminder that even the most troubled teenagers are capable of great things, and that with the right support and encouragement, they can overcome their challenges and achieve their full potential. The novel underscores the importance of seeing teenagers as individuals with their own thoughts, feelings, and aspirations.

Professor Halvorsen

Professor Halvorsen is a colleague of Andrew Martin at Cambridge University and serves as an important supporting character in The Humans. He represents the academic world, with all its complexities and eccentricities. Halvorsen is portrayed as a brilliant mathematician, but he is also deeply flawed. He is arrogant, self-centered, and often dismissive of others. He is primarily concerned with his own work and his own reputation, and he is willing to go to great lengths to protect them. Halvorsen's character provides a contrast to the alien's perspective on humanity. While the alien is initially critical of human behavior, he eventually comes to appreciate the good in people. Halvorsen, on the other hand, embodies some of the worst aspects of human nature, such as greed, ambition, and envy. He is driven by a desire for recognition and success, and he is willing to exploit others to achieve his goals. Halvorsen's role in the story is to highlight the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of humility. His actions have serious consequences, both for himself and for those around him. He serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us that success at any cost is not worth it. The Humans uses Halvorsen's character to explore the themes of morality, ethics, and the pursuit of knowledge. His actions raise questions about the responsibility of scientists and the potential consequences of their discoveries. The novel suggests that knowledge should be used for the benefit of humanity, not for personal gain. Halvorsen's character also adds an element of suspense to the story. His rivalry with Andrew Martin and his suspicion of the alien create tension and conflict. He is a constant threat to the alien's mission, and his actions force the alien to make difficult choices. Ultimately, Halvorsen's character is a complex and multifaceted one. He is not simply a villain, but a flawed human being with his own motivations and desires. His presence in the story adds depth and nuance to the exploration of human nature, making The Humans a truly thought-provoking and engaging novel.

The Importance of Minor Characters

Even the minor characters in The Humans play a significant role in shaping the story and reinforcing its themes. These characters, though not as central as Andrew, Isobel, and Gulliver, add depth and texture to the narrative, providing different perspectives on humanity and its complexities. They contribute to the novel's rich tapestry of human experience, highlighting the diversity of personalities, motivations, and struggles that make up the human world. One example of a significant minor character is the shopkeeper who befriends the alien. This character offers a glimpse into the everyday kindness and generosity that can be found in ordinary people. He is patient and understanding with the alien, despite his strange behavior, and he provides him with valuable insights into human customs and culture. This character reminds us that even small acts of kindness can have a big impact on others. Another important minor character is the taxi driver who shares his life story with the alien. This character represents the resilience and perseverance of the human spirit. He has faced many challenges in his life, but he remains optimistic and hopeful. He teaches the alien about the importance of family, hard work, and never giving up on your dreams. These minor characters, along with others in the novel, contribute to the overall message that humanity is a complex and multifaceted thing. They show us that there is good and bad in everyone, and that even the most flawed individuals are capable of great love, kindness, and compassion. By exploring these characters, Haig creates a nuanced and realistic portrayal of human nature, reminding us that we are all connected and that we all have something to offer the world. The inclusion of these characters ensures that The Humans is not just a story about one alien's experience, but a broader exploration of what it means to be human, with all its joys, sorrows, and contradictions. They enrich the narrative, making it more relatable and thought-provoking for readers. The author does a good job of giving different perspectives, which is creative and good.