In the book "Voyager" by Diana Gabaldon, a small bottle of penicillin tablets serves as a significant symbol. This small container represents a mix of hope and the fragility of life. The presence of penicillin, a life-saving antibiotic, highlights the advances in medicine that were not available in historical times, reflecting the characters' struggles against illness and mortality.
The bottle signifies the intersection of past and present, encapsulating the essence of time travel that is central to Gabaldon's narrative. It reminds readers of the challenges faced in different eras, where access to medical treatment could alter the course of a person's life significantly. The small bottle becomes a powerful reminder of resilience and the impact of seemingly small discoveries on human history.