The Extraordinary Journeys: Around the World in Eighty Days (Oxford World's Classics)

Jules Verne's "Around the World in Eighty Days" is a cornerstone of travel literature, an adventurous tale that combines the wonder of the new world and the mechanical marvels of the 19th century. This heart-racing journey across continents and oceans captures the imagination of readers, taking them on an unforgettable adventure. This Oxford World's Classics edition provides readers with an opportunity to delve deeper into Verne's captivating world, rich with colorful characters and cultural encounters.

Summary of the Book

Phileas Fogg, a fastidious English gentleman residing in London, embarks on a daring quest to circumnavigate the globe in a strict time frame of eighty days. Sparked by a wager with his fellow club members, Fogg stakes half of his sizable fortune on the completion of this seemingly impossible task. Accompanied by his loyal valet, Passepartout, Fogg's journey takes them through Europe, Asia, and America, employing steamers, railways, elephants, and even sleds to overcome each obstacle. Along the way, they encounter a series of trials including natural calamities, cultural misunderstandings, and a relentless police detective named Fix who mistakenly believes Fogg has robbed the Bank of England. The narrative whisks you through numerous adventures, challenges, and a race against time, ultimately questioning the notions of predictability and the capabilities of humanity.

Key Takeaways

The journey is a reflection of the global era of exploration and technological progress during Verne's lifetime, showcasing how rapidly the world was shrinking as technologies evolved. Through Fogg’s unwavering composure and ingenuity, audiences learn the value of determination, courage, and resilience in overcoming challenges. Furthermore, the book serves as a cultural critique and celebration, painting a vivid picture of the various places and peoples that Fogg and Passepartout encounter, highlighting both the beauty and complexity of our world.

Famous Quotes from the Book

• "The unforeseen does not exist."

• "Anything one man can imagine, other men can make real."

• "I see that it is by no means useless to travel, if a man wants to see something new."

Why This Book Matters

"Around the World in Eighty Days" remains a timeless piece, still relevant for modern audiences. Its exploration of time, technology, and globalization was groundbreaking for the 19th century and continues to resonate in today's fast-paced world. The novel's mix of adventure, mystery, and humor enables readers to ponder over themes of cultural identity, global interconnectedness, and human innovation. As part of the "Extraordinary Journeys" series, this book established Verne as a visionary, celebrating human curiosity and the unyielding quest for knowledge and exploration. For students and literature enthusiasts, this novel is not only an integral part of Verne's legacy but also an essential reflection of an era that forever transformed human life and perception of the world.