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Chapter 20
Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Around the World in Eighty Days, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Modernity, Time, and Control
Imperialism
Chance, Adventure, and Human Connection
Honor, Reputation, and Duty
Summary
Analysis
Detective Fix joins Fogg and Aouda on John Bunsby’s pilot-boat, the Tankadere, to Shanghai. At Fogg’s urging, Bunsby drives the boat as quickly as possible even in the stormy weather. Fix ponders whether he should continue to pursue Fogg since he will not be able to legally arrest him once they reach the United States. He decides that he will, since the arrest is his duty as a detective.
Fogg’s urging of John Bunsby shows that he still feels a deep-rooted antagonism toward time, even when trying to beat it could result in a dangerous situation at sea. Fix, too, is willing to risk his safety, reinforcing that he is steadfastly committed to fulfilling his duty.
Themes
Fogg and Aouda believe that Passepartout must have embarked on the Carnatic without them, and hope that they will be reunited with “the worthy fellow” in Yokohama. As they approach Shanghai, however, Bunsby warns them that they are about to face a squall. He struggles to drive through the storm, and the Tankadere nearly capsizes several times. They arrive in Shanghai just as the American steamer is leaving for Yokohama, so Fogg instructs Bunsby to raise the Tankadere’s flag and fire the small cannon on board as a distress signal.
Fogg and Aouda are both clearly worried about Passepartout; despite their short time together, the obstacles they have faced on their adventure have brought them together and formed a deep connection among the three of them. Sending the distress signal is another sign that Fogg is becoming increasingly willing to reach out and rely on the kindness of others.
Themes
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