Around the World in Eighty Days is a classic adventure novel written by Jules Verne, a pioneer of the science fiction genre. Published in 1873, the book follows the journey of Phileas Fogg, an Englishman of precise habits, as he attempts to circumnavigate the globe in just eighty days to win a wager. This tale of adventure, determination, and the triumph of human ingenuity is set against the backdrop of the rapidly advancing technologies of the 19th century, making it not only an engaging story but also a commentary on the industrial age. With themes of perseverance, the clash of cultures, and the wonders of travel, the novel has captivated readers for over a century and continues to be a timeless exploration of human curiosity and resilience.

The story begins in London in 1872, introducing Phileas Fogg as a man of meticulous routine and a member of the Reform Club, an exclusive gentlemen’s club. Fogg is a wealthy and enigmatic bachelor whose daily life is governed by an unwavering schedule. His life takes a sudden turn when he engages in a heated debate with fellow club members about the possibility of traveling around the world in just eighty days—a feat considered nearly impossible at the time.

To prove his point, Fogg makes a daring wager of £20,000, half of his fortune, with his skeptical peers. The terms of the bet are simple: Fogg must depart immediately and return to London within eighty days, no later than 8:45 p.m. on December 21st, 1872. Accompanied by his newly hired French valet, Jean Passepartout, Fogg embarks on this incredible journey, armed with a strict itinerary and unwavering confidence in his ability to succeed.

Example: One of the first major challenges Fogg faces is leaving London promptly. As Fogg and Passepartout rush to the train station, they narrowly catch the departing train, illustrating the urgency and precision that will characterize their entire journey. This moment sets the tone for the rest of the novel, where time is of the essence, and every second counts.

Fogg’s journey begins with a relatively smooth passage through Europe, traveling from London to Suez via train and steamer. The first leg of the journey is uneventful, allowing Verne to focus on the characters’ personalities and the developing relationship between Fogg and Passepartout. Fogg remains calm and calculated, while Passepartout, though initially bewildered by his master’s impromptu decision, quickly adapts to the demands of the journey.

Upon reaching Suez, Fogg encounters his first real obstacle: the British detective, Mr. Fix. Unbeknownst to Fogg, Fix is convinced that Fogg is the infamous bank robber who recently stole £55,000 from the Bank of England. Fix decides to follow Fogg on his journey, hoping to arrest him as soon as he steps on British soil again. This subplot adds an element of suspense and intrigue to the story, as Fix’s pursuit threatens to derail Fogg’s carefully planned expedition.

The journey continues to India, where Fogg and Passepartout travel from Bombay to Calcutta by train. However, they encounter an unexpected problem: the railway is incomplete, forcing them to find alternative means of transportation. Fogg, ever resourceful, hires an elephant and a guide to carry them through the jungle. Along the way, they rescue Aouda, a young Indian widow who is about to be sacrificed in a ritual known as “suttee.”

Memorable Quote: “Sir Francis, this is a woman’s life we have saved, and we shall be entitled to our reward.” This quote reflects Fogg’s sense of duty and justice, as well as his unwavering commitment to doing what is right, even if it means deviating from his strict schedule.

Example: The rescue of Aouda is a pivotal moment in the story, showcasing Fogg’s compassion and willingness to help others despite the risks to his own goals. This act of bravery also introduces a romantic subplot, as Aouda becomes an important companion on their journey.

As the travelers reach Hong Kong, Fix continues his covert pursuit, still convinced that Fogg is the elusive bank robber. However, his attempts to delay Fogg by convincing Passepartout to betray his master ultimately fail. Passepartout remains loyal, and Fix’s plans are thwarted, allowing the group to continue their journey unimpeded.

In Hong Kong, Fogg faces another setback when he discovers that the steamer to Yokohama has already departed. Undeterred, he charters a small boat to catch the steamer at the next port, displaying his relentless determination and resourcefulness. Aouda, who was supposed to be left in Hong Kong, decides to stay with Fogg and Passepartout, further solidifying her bond with them.

In Japan, Passepartout, who had been separated from Fogg and Aouda, finds himself in a precarious situation, penniless and alone. He manages to earn some money by performing acrobatics in a circus, demonstrating his adaptability and resilience. Eventually, he reunites with Fogg and Aouda, and the trio continues their journey across the Pacific Ocean.

Memorable Quote: “The unforeseen does not exist.” This quote encapsulates Fogg’s unshakeable belief in his ability to overcome any obstacle through careful planning and unwavering resolve, a belief that is tested repeatedly throughout the novel.

Example: Passepartout’s circus performance in Yokohama is a vivid example of the character’s resourcefulness and determination to survive against all odds. It also highlights the novel’s theme of adaptability, as the characters must constantly adjust to new challenges and environments.

After a long voyage across the Pacific, Fogg, Aouda, and Passepartout arrive in San Francisco, where they quickly board a transcontinental train to New York. The journey across America is fraught with danger, including an attack by a group of Sioux warriors. During the attack, Passepartout is captured, prompting Fogg to organize a daring rescue mission. This episode underscores the growing bond between Fogg and Passepartout, as well as Fogg’s willingness to take significant risks to protect his companions.

The travelers face yet another setback when their train is delayed by a snowstorm in the Rocky Mountains. Determined to keep to his schedule, Fogg arranges for a sledge equipped with sails to carry them across the snow-covered plains to Omaha, where they catch a train to Chicago and then to New York.

Despite these delays, Fogg arrives in New York only to find that the steamer to Liverpool has already departed. Undeterred, he charters a small boat, the Henrietta, and bribes the crew to take him across the Atlantic. When the coal runs out, Fogg purchases the boat itself and orders it to be dismantled and burned for fuel. This extraordinary measure exemplifies Fogg’s relentless determination to win the wager, no matter the cost.

Example: The journey across the American frontier is one of the most action-packed segments of the novel, showcasing the dangers and unpredictability of travel in the 19th century. The attack by the Sioux and the subsequent rescue of Passepartout highlight the physical dangers of the journey, while the sledge ride across the snow demonstrates the ingenuity and resourcefulness required to overcome such challenges.

As Fogg and his companions approach the final leg of their journey, they encounter one last major obstacle: Fix finally reveals his true intentions and arrests Fogg upon arrival in Liverpool. Believing he has lost the wager, Fogg is despondent, but upon his release (when the real bank robber is caught), he rushes back to London, hoping against hope that he can still make it in time.

In a dramatic twist, Fogg arrives at the Reform Club at precisely 8:45 p.m. on December 21st, just in time to win the wager. It is only later that Fogg and his companions realize they had gained an extra day by traveling eastward around the world, crossing the International Date Line. This final revelation underscores the novel’s theme of time and its malleability, as well as the importance of perseverance and faith in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

Memorable Quote: “The chance which now seems lost may present itself at the last moment.” This quote encapsulates the tension and uncertainty of the final moments of Fogg’s journey, where everything hangs in the balance, and the outcome is far from certain.

Around the World in Eighty Days is more than just an adventure novel; it is a celebration of the human spirit and the wonders of travel. Through the character of Phileas Fogg, Jules Verne explores themes of perseverance, resourcefulness, and the relentless pursuit of a goal. Fogg’s journey is not just a physical one; it is also a journey of self-discovery, as he learns the value of companionship and love through his relationship with Aouda.

The novel’s portrayal of different cultures and regions of the world, while occasionally reflecting the biases of its time, also serves as a reminder of the vast diversity of the world and the potential for connection across cultural boundaries. Verne’s vivid descriptions of the various landscapes and cities Fogg visits bring the journey to life, making the reader feel as if they are traveling alongside the characters.

Critical Reception and Legacy: Since its publication, Around the World in Eighty Days has been hailed as one of Verne’s most popular and enduring works. Its influence extends beyond literature, inspiring countless adaptations in film, television, and theater. The novel’s themes of adventure, innovation, and determination continue to resonate with readers today, making