Human Ambition and Folly

Characters driven by curiosity, profit, or scientific glory often face setbacks due to their own flaws (e.g., tardiness, recklessness) or the limitations of their technology, reflecting on the hubris and resilience inherent in human endeavor.

Jarvis and Leroy's curiosity leads them into danger, highlighting the risks of unchecked ambition.

Dixon's guilt and desire to know the 'if' world reflect human folly in seeking to alter or understand the unchangeable past; van Manderpootz's grandiose autobiography plans also illustrate ambition.