Important works
Around the world in 80 days
Jules Verne's novel Around the World in 80 Days is far more than just an adventure story. It is a fascinating snapshot of the 19th century, a time of belief in progress and the technological revolution. The protagonist, Phileas Fogg, embodies the cool rationalism of this era. A gentleman of the utmost precision who leaves nothing to chance, he bets that he can circumnavigate the world in just 80 days with the help of modern transportation. He is accompanied by his faithful servant Passepartout, whose impulsive and emotional character forms a contrast to Fogg's determination.
The journey begins and ends in London and takes the two adventurers through a variety of countries and cultures. From Egypt, India and Hong Kong to Japan and the USA - Verne takes his readers on a journey that not only crosses geographical distances, but also cultural borders. The novel reflects the enthusiasm for progress of its time, but also shows the colonial prejudices that characterized Europe at the time. In India, for example, Fogg and Passepartout save the young widow Aouda from death at the stake - a scene that captivates the reader with suspense on the one hand, but is imbued with a Eurocentric perspective on the other.
The real heart of the story is the question of time. Fogg plans his journey with a precision reminiscent of machines, but he is repeatedly thrown back by unexpected events. Here Verne shows that, despite all the technology, man can never gain complete control over the world. In the finale, when Fogg thinks he has lost his bet, he discovers that he has gained a day due to the time shift. This twist is a reminder of how relative and surprising time can be.
Around the World in 80 Days is both a tribute to human ingenuity and a reflection of its time. It invites us to question the achievements and limits of progress.
The cultural arrogance and ideas of superiority expressed in Around the World in 80 Days are striking and a product of the time in which the novel was written. Jules Verne wrote his work in the context of European colonialism and the 19th century's belief in progress. This era was characterized by the conviction that Europe was not only technologically, but also culturally and morally superior to the rest of the world.