Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Journey to the Center of the Earth, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Science and Discovery
Maturity and Independence
Intuition vs. Evidence
Nature vs. Civilization
Adventure
Summary
Analysis
Snäffel is 5,000 feet high, and the men cannot see its peaks from their position at the base. Hans leads the group single file up a narrow path. Despite Axel’s anxiety, he observes with interest the “mineralogical curiosities” he passes on the mountain. He pays particular attention to the soil, since its composition speaks to how recently the volcano formed and could thus prove or disprove Saknussemm’s claim that the crater leads to the center of the earth.
Axel is not a savant like his uncle, but he loves science and has a solid understanding of it. The joy of geological discovery briefly overcomes his fear, allowing him to examine the soil composition with genuine interest. He also tries to use scientific evidence to assess the validity of Saknussemm’s claims, reiterating the importance of collecting data to support or dispute an argument.
Themes
The route becomes more difficult, but Hans continues to lead with confidence. He creates landmarks to mark their path for the return journey, but Axel’s narration notes that this precaution proves unnecessary. After three hours, the group pauses for breakfast, then starts to ascend Snäffel. Climbing up requires all the men to help each other, and Lidenbrock stays close to Axel’s side to offer his nephew support.
Hans proves to be an excellent guide as he traverses the difficult terrain without concern. As Lidenbrock and Axel follow him, Lidenbrock reveals a more caring side. He usually treats Axel as an assistant, but his care for his nephew as they climb Snäffel makes clear that Lidenbrock does love Axel. The fact that he worries Axel might not make it up the mountain without support also highlights how much growing up Axel has to do before he becomes independent.
Themes
After a day of climbing, Axel weakens, and Lidenbrock tells Hans that they should stop. Hans, however, insists that they must continue. He points out an approaching storm of glacial dust, which the Icelandic guides call a mistour. Hans instructs the group to follow him as quickly as possible to avoid the storm, and they just barely rush to safety. At 11 o’clock that night, the travelers reach the summit of Snäffel. Axel watches the midnight sun reach its lowest point.
Lidenbrock’s request that the men pause to let Axel recover continues to illustrate his affection for his nephew, which only becomes apparent when Axel faces a physical challenge. Lidenbrock and Axel aren’t prepared for the physical toll climbing a mountain requires, suggesting that they may not have prepared appropriately for the rest of their journey, either.
Themes
