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Chapter 4
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
The news of Fogg’s “tour of the world” spreads throughout England, and people throughout the country place bets for and against his endeavor “as if he were a race-horse.” An article from the Royal Geographic Society deems Fogg’s journey impossible due to the delays that faulty machinery and bad weather will surely create, which causes him to lose public support.
Fogg is not alone in his love of wagers—placing bets seems to be an integral part of English culture. Whist is the area of Fogg’s life where he is able to be free from self-imposed rigidity, and gambling likely serves a similar role in conservative Victorian society.
Themes
The publicity surrounding Fogg’s strange habits and sudden departure bring him under the suspicion of the Scotland Yard. Detective Fix receives word from the Commissioner of Police that Fogg is the man who robbed £55,000 from the Bank of England and obtains a warrant to arrest him.
Fix’s suspicion draws Fogg’s honor into question and creates a sense of suspense and mystery. Though Fogg has the appearance and demeanor of a gentleman, it remains to be seen whether he will live up to his own reputation.
Themes
