Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea: Part 2, Chapter 8 Summary & Analysis

In rapturous language, Arronax reflects on the majestic size and beauty of the Atlantic Ocean. After breathing in some fresh air up on deck, he and Conseil retire to their respective cabins. For the first time, Ned comes into Arronax’s cabin, looking despondent and not saying a word. Arronax expresses sympathy with Ned’s grim mood after their loss of opportunity for escape, but reminds him that attempting to leave would have been “suicide.” Suddenly, with intense seriousness, Ned says that he has made a plan to escape that night, when the submarine is only a few miles off the coast of Spain.

Ned explains that at nine p.m. that night, he and Conseil will sneak onto the submarine’s central staircase, while Arronax waits in the saloon. On their signal, he will join them on a small boat that has already been prepared. In response to this plan, Arronax feebly comments that the “sea is bad.” Ned fervently replies that they must take their chance to seize freedom at any cost, then leaves. Arronax is left miserably reflecting on the choice before him, which he perceives as being between his own personal freedom and the opportunity to complete his research aboard this “marvelous ship.” The hours until nine p.m. drag on slowly, and Arronax feels painfully tormented.

Looking around the submarine, Arronax finds himself in tears, horrified at the prospect of leaving somewhere where he has spent so much happy, productive time. At eight p.m., he returns to his room and dresses in warm clothes. He waits and listens, hoping to hear the sound of Ned being apprehended. He feels a movement that indicates the Nautilus has been parked on the ocean floor. Suddenly, Nemo enters the room, hoping to discuss the history of Spain. He recounts the story of the battle of Vigo Bay, although Arronax remains confused about why he believes this is of particular interest right now.  

Nemo explains that they are currently in Vigo Bay, and that Arronax can choose to explore it if he wishes. Arronax looks out the panel windows of the Nautilus at the submarine’s crew, which are currently engaged in clearing away chests upon chests of gold ingots, jewels, and other “precious booty.” Suddenly, he realizes that Nemo has been collecting the spoils that floated to the bottom of the ocean during the battle. Nemo confirms that this is indeed the source of his enormous fortune. Arronax briefly mentions that the rest of the world is now deprived of the spoils from the battle, and Nemo is offended. Passionately, he asserts that he acts in solidarity with “the oppressed people of this world.” Arronax believes that this is true, and that it is what inspired Nemo to immerse himself in an underwater life.