The Tour Of The World In 80 Days
"Around the World in 80 Days" is a novel by Jules Verne, published in 1873. It follows the story of a wealthy Englishman named Phileas Fogg who makes a wager with his friends that he can travel around the world in 80 days. The novel has been adapted into many films and television shows over the years. It is a classic adventure story that continues to captivate readers of all ages.
The Plot Of The Novel
The story starts in London where Phileas Fogg, a wealthy and precise man, makes a wager with his fellow members of a gentlemen's club that he can circumnavigate the world in just 80 days. Joining him in his adventure is his newly-hired French valet, Passepartout. Fogg and Passepartout set off immediately, but their plans are derailed when they are mistaken for bank robbers and pursued by Detective Fix of Scotland Yard. Despite this obstacle, Fogg and Passepartout continue their journey, encountering various people and cultures along the way.
They travel to Egypt, where they rescue a widow named Aouda from being burned alive on her husband's funeral pyre. The three of them travel together to India, where they are delayed by a funeral procession and an attack by rebels. They eventually make it to Hong Kong, where they catch a steamer to San Francisco. From there, they travel by train to New York, and then to Liverpool, where they make it back to London just in time for Fogg to win his wager.
The Theme Of The Novel
The theme of "Around the World in 80 Days" is the triumph of human ingenuity and perseverance over seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Fogg's journey is constantly beset by challenges, both external and internal. He encounters physical obstacles such as a blizzard in the American Midwest and a shipwreck in the Indian Ocean. He also faces personal challenges such as his own rigidity and his growing attachment to Aouda.
Despite these challenges, Fogg and Passepartout remain resolute in their mission to travel around the world in 80 days. Their determination and resourcefulness enable them to overcome these obstacles and reach their goal. The novel is a celebration of human spirit and the power of the human mind to conquer adversity.
The Impact Of The Novel
"Around the World in 80 Days" is a landmark work of fiction that has had a significant impact on popular culture. The novel has been adapted into countless films, television shows, and stage productions. It has also inspired other works of fiction, such as Michael Palin's "Around the World in 80 Days" travelogue.
The novel has also had a lasting impact on the travel industry. The concept of circumnavigating the world in a set amount of time has become a popular challenge for travelers, and many companies now offer "around the world" travel packages that follow the same route as Fogg's journey.
Conclusion
"Around the World in 80 Days" is a timeless classic that continues to attract new readers and captivate audiences around the world. The novel's theme of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity is as relevant today as it was when the book was first published. Whether you are a fan of adventure stories, classic literature, or simply enjoy a good yarn, "Around the World in 80 Days" is a must-read.