Section 4 Around the World in Eighty Days Ex 4.3
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Explaination on Around the World in Eighty Days
"Around the World in Eighty Days" is a classic adventure novel written by the French author Jules Verne. First published in 1872, it tells the story of Phileas Fogg, an English gentleman, who makes a daring bet that he can travel around the world in just 80 days.
Plot Summary
Phileas Fogg's Bet: Phileas Fogg, a wealthy and precise Englishman living in London, is a member of the Reform Club. During a discussion at the club, Fogg argues that it is possible to travel around the world in 80 days, a feat considered nearly impossible at the time. Challenged by his fellow club members, Fogg wagers £20,000 (half of his fortune) that he can complete the journey within the time frame.
The Journey Begins: Fogg sets out on his journey the very same evening, accompanied by his newly hired French valet, Passepartout. Their itinerary includes various modes of transportation, such as trains, steamships, and even an elephant, as they traverse Europe, Asia, and North America.
Challenges and Adventures: Throughout their journey, Fogg and Passepartout encounter numerous obstacles:
- In India, they rescue a young widow, Aouda, from a forced ritualistic sacrifice. She joins them on their journey.
- In Hong Kong, Passepartout is kidnapped, and Fogg must rescue him.
- In the United States, they face attacks by Sioux warriors and have to navigate a train hijacking.
Detective Fix: Unbeknownst to Fogg, a detective named Fix is following them. Fix mistakenly believes that Fogg is a bank robber who has stolen a large sum of money from the Bank of England. Fix tries to delay Fogg's progress at every turn, hoping to arrest him once they return to British soil.
The Race Against Time: Despite the numerous delays and Fix's interference, Fogg remains determined to win his bet. They finally reach England, only to be arrested by Fix. However, it's soon revealed that the real bank robber had been caught three days earlier, and Fogg is released.
The Final Stretch: Fogg, believing he has lost the bet, returns home in despair. However, he soon realizes that, due to the time zone changes and the International Date Line, they have arrived a day earlier than he thought. He rushes to the Reform Club and arrives just in time to win the bet.
Themes and Analysis
- Adventure and Exploration: The novel celebrates the spirit of adventure and the technological advancements of the 19th century that made such a journey conceivable.
- Time and Punctuality: Fogg's obsession with precision and punctuality is a central theme, reflecting the era's fascination with the regulation of time and schedules.
- Cultural Encounters: As Fogg and Passepartout travel through different countries, they encounter various cultures and customs, highlighting both the diversity and the interconnectedness of the world.
- The Human Spirit: The story showcases human determination, resourcefulness, and the ability to overcome obstacles through ingenuity and perseverance.
Legacy
"Around the World in Eighty Days" has remained a popular and enduring work since its publication. It has inspired numerous adaptations, including films, television series, and stage productions. The novel is celebrated not only for its thrilling narrative but also for its optimistic view of global travel and human capability.