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Allusion
Explanation and Analysis—Old Oedipus:
Axel is so nervous about the potential consequences of Lidenbrock uncovering the key to Saknussemm’s code that he compares his situation to a Greek tragedy. Verne alludes to Sophocles’s play Oedipus Rex to underscore how seriously Axel takes this dilemma:
But how could I get away? The professor might be back any moment. And suppose he called me, and wanted to recommence his logogryphical labours, which old Œdipus himself would not have undertaken? And if I am not forthcoming, what would be the consequence?
The allusion to Oedipus Rex—a tragedy written by the Ancient Greek playwright Sophocles—both refers to the idea of endless work, and emphasizes the potentially grave implications of unveiling hidden knowledge.
In this play, the Greek King Oedipus unknowingly fulfills a prophecy that he will marry his mother and murder his father. He spends much of the play trying to figure out the mystery of his origins, only to end up in exile and blinded when the truth comes out. Had he done nothing, he would have remained in power, but because he acted, he is undone. By invoking this classical reference, Verne communicates Axel's reluctance at the potential of having to “recommence” the “logogryphical labors” (trying to translate the coded runes) when his uncle comes back. Axel already knows what the message says. However, he is torn because he doesn’t want to either relay the information, or continue working all night without food.
This allusion also underscores the notion that some knowledge might be perilous or unwelcome. Axel knows what the coded runes mean, but he thinks that if he tells his uncle, the professor will want to attempt the journey to the Earth’s center. The allusion works in three ways. It reflects Axel’s fear and reluctance. It provides readers familiar with Sophocles with a literary comparison that enriches their understanding of his dilemma. It also, in invoking Oedipus, very subtly points to the potential challenges and dangers the characters might encounter in their quest for knowledge.
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