# Around the World in Eighty Days — Themes

> Major themes in Around the World in Eighty Days by Jules Verne.

## Time and Punctuality

The entire plot revolves around Phileas Fogg's strict adherence to a precise schedule, with time treated as a measurable, almost mechanical resource that must be mastered to succeed.

### Where it surfaces

- [In which Phileas Fogg and Passepartout accept each other, the one as master, the other as man](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/i): Punctuality is central: Fogg corrects Passepartout's watch by four minutes and sets the exact time of his employment, reflecting his obsession with time.
- [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/ii): Fogg's life is governed by precise timing, from the electric clocks beating in unison to the exact minutes for tea and shaving, underscoring his obsession with punctuality.
- [In which a conversation takes place which seems likely to cost Phileas Fogg dear](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/iii): Fogg's precise calculation of the journey in hours and minutes, and his insistence on mathematical timing.
- [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/iv): Fogg's precise schedule is emphasized: he returns home at an unusual hour, gives exact departure and return times, and insists on leaving within ten minutes, highlighting the theme of punctuality.
- [Chapter V: In which a new species of funds, unknown to the moneyed men, appears on 'Change.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/v): The entire debate centers on the feasibility of completing the journey within a strict 80-day schedule, emphasizing the critical role of precise timing.
- [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/vi): Fix repeatedly asks about the Mongolia's punctuality, and the consul confirms the steamer is never behind time, highlighting the theme of precise schedules.

## Adventure and Exploration

The journey across continents and oceans showcases the thrill of global travel, encountering diverse cultures, landscapes, and unexpected obstacles that test the characters' resolve.

### Where it surfaces

- [In which a conversation takes place which seems likely to cost Phileas Fogg dear](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/iii): The wager itself is a bold adventure to circumnavigate the globe in record time.
- [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/iv): The announcement of a round-the-world journey in eighty days sets the stage for a grand adventure, with Fogg and Passepartout embarking on an unprecedented trip.
- [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/ix): Passepartout's wonder at Aden and the exotic locales underscores the adventure of travel.
- [In which Passepartout receives a new proof that fortune favors the brave](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xiii): The daring nighttime rescue, stealthy movements, and escape through the forest embody the adventurous spirit of the journey.
- [In which Phileas Fogg descends the whole length of the beautiful valley of the Ganges without ever thinking of seeing it.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xiv): The chapter details the rapid journey through the Ganges valley, including the rescue of Aouda, the elephant ride, and the train travel, highlighting the adventurous spirit of the expedition.
- [XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xxi): The risky voyage on a small boat through treacherous seas embodies the adventurous spirit of the journey.

## Technology and Progress

The novel highlights 19th-century advancements in transportation—steamers, railways, and telegraphs—as tools that shrink the world and enable unprecedented feats of travel.

### Where it surfaces

- [In which a conversation takes place which seems likely to cost Phileas Fogg dear](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/iii): Discussion of railways and steamships making the world 'smaller' and enabling the journey.
- [XXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xxvi): The detailed description of the Pacific Railroad's construction and the innovative sleeping car demonstrate technological advancement.
- [XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xxix): The railroad is celebrated as a 'mighty instrument of progress and civilisation,' and the chapter details the operation of the train and the uncoupling mechanism.
- [In which Fix, the detective, considerably furthers the interests of Phileas Fogg](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xxxi): The sail-sledge, a hybrid of traditional sledding and sailing technology, represents innovative travel solutions in the 19th century.
- [In which Phileas Fogg engages in a direct struggle with bad fortune](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xxxii): The chapter contrasts steamers and sailing vessels, highlighting the importance of steamship speed for Fogg's journey.
- [In which Phileas Fogg shows himself equal to the occasion](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xxxiii): The use of steam power, the transatlantic steamer, and the coordinated train and steamer connections from Queenstown to Dublin to Liverpool highlight the era's technological advancements in travel.

## Determination and Resilience

Phileas Fogg's unflappable calm and relentless pursuit of his goal, despite numerous setbacks, underscores the theme of human willpower and perseverance against all odds.

### Where it surfaces

- [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/iv): Fogg's calm and resolute demeanor in the face of a sudden, ambitious journey demonstrates his determination to succeed against the odds.
- [Chapter V: In which a new species of funds, unknown to the moneyed men, appears on 'Change.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/v): Despite widespread ridicule and declining support, Fogg's venture continues, and Lord Albemarle's unwavering faith highlights the theme of persistence against odds.
- [In which Passepartout talks rather more, perhaps, than is prudent](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/viii): Fix's determined pursuit of Fogg, despite the lack of concrete evidence, and his plan to follow him across continents demonstrate his relentless resolve.
- [In which Passepartout is only too glad to get off with the loss of his shoes](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/x): Despite the setback of Passepartout's misadventure, Fogg remains focused on his journey, and Fix resolves to continue his pursuit to Calcutta.
- [In which Phileas Fogg secures a curious means of conveyance at a fabulous price](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xi): Fogg's calm persistence in the face of the railway's unexpected end and his willingness to pay any price for the elephant demonstrate his unwavering determination to continue his journey.
- [In which Phileas Fogg and his companions venture across the indian forests, and what ensued.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xii): Fogg and his companions endure the harsh journey through the forest with stoic resolve, and Fogg decides to use his time to attempt a rescue.

## Cultural Encounter and Imperialism

The narrative presents a Eurocentric view of global cultures, with descriptions of Indian, Chinese, and Japanese societies filtered through colonial attitudes, while also acknowledging cultural diversity.

### Where it surfaces

- [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/ix): The diverse population of Aden and the British presence in India reflect cultural encounters and imperial context.
- [In which Passepartout is only too glad to get off with the loss of his shoes](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/x): Passepartout's ignorance of local customs leads to a violent encounter with priests, highlighting the tensions between British travelers and native religious practices under colonial rule.
- [In which Phileas Fogg secures a curious means of conveyance at a fabulous price](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xi): The chapter highlights British colonial presence in India, the incomplete railway as a symbol of imperial infrastructure, and the negotiation with an Indian elephant owner and a Parsee guide.
- [In which Phileas Fogg and his companions venture across the indian forests, and what ensued.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xii): The chapter depicts a direct encounter with Hindu religious practices (sati) and highlights the tension between British colonial authority and local customs.
- [In which Passepartout receives a new proof that fortune favors the brave](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xiii): The chapter depicts the clash between British/European values and the Indian practice of suttee, highlighting themes of intervention and moral judgment.
- [In which Phileas Fogg descends the whole length of the beautiful valley of the Ganges without ever thinking of seeing it.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xiv): The narrative contrasts Indian traditions (suttee, sacred rivers, Brahmin rituals) with British colonial infrastructure (railways, steamers, English language), and comments on the anglicisation of India.

## Love and Marriage

Fogg's initially cold, logical demeanor is transformed through his rescue and growing affection for Aouda, culminating in marriage as a reward that adds emotional depth to his journey.

### Where it surfaces

- [In which Phileas Fogg does not have to repeat his orders to Passepartout twice](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xxxv): Aouda proposes marriage to Fogg out of gratitude and love, leading to a mutual confession and plans for a wedding.
- [In which it is shown that Phileas Fogg gained nothing by his tour around the world, unless it were happiness](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xxxvii): Fogg marries Aouda, and the chapter emphasizes that happiness, not money, is the true reward of his journey.

## Order and Method

Fogg's meticulously regulated life—from his daily routine to his mathematical approach to travel—contrasts with the chaos of the world, emphasizing the value of discipline and precision.

### Where it surfaces

- [In which Phileas Fogg and Passepartout accept each other, the one as master, the other as man](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/i): Fogg's life is governed by precise routines, from his mathematically fixed meal times to his dismissal of a servant for a two-degree error in shaving-water temperature.
- [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/ii): The chapter emphasizes Fogg's meticulously ordered household, with a detailed daily schedule and a system for his wardrobe, reflecting his methodical nature.
- [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/vii): Fogg's methodical approach to his journey is highlighted through his detailed itinerary and systematic record-keeping.
- [Showing what happened on the voyage from Singapore to Hong Kong](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xvii): Fogg moves methodically in his orbit around the world, indifferent to the disturbances around him, while Passepartout's impatience contrasts with his master's calm.
- [XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xx): Fogg's systematic approach to problem-solving: shopping for Aouda, reporting Passepartout's disappearance, and negotiating the charter of the Tankadere.

## Justice and Mistaken Identity

The subplot of detective Fix pursuing Fogg as a bank robber creates tension around mistaken identity, questioning assumptions of guilt and the reliability of appearances.

### Where it surfaces

- [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/vi): Fix, a detective hunting a bank robber, mistakes Phileas Fogg for the criminal based on the passport description, setting up a case of mistaken identity.
- [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/vii): Fix's mistaken belief that Fogg is the bank robber drives the tension, as he tries to obstruct Fogg's travel.
- [XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xv): Fogg and Passepartout are arrested for a forgotten offense in Bombay, while the true circumstances of Aouda's rescue are ignored.
- [XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xvi): Fix's pursuit of Fogg as a bank robber, based on mistaken identity, drives the detective's scheming.
- [Showing what happened on the voyage from Singapore to Hong Kong](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xvii): Fix pursues Fogg as a suspected bank robber, while Passepartout mistakenly believes Fix is a spy from the Reform Club, creating a web of misidentification.
- [XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xix): Fix mistakenly believes Fogg is a bank robber and attempts to detain him, while Passepartout mistakenly thinks Fix is an agent of the Reform Club.

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