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Foreshadowing
Genre
Explanation and Analysis:
Journey to the Center of the Earth is often cited as an early example of science fiction. This kind of literature explores futuristic or fantastical ideas linked to scientific discovery. Verne’s novel—although it’s not set in outer space or an alien planet—fits into the mold of science fiction due to its imaginative portrayal of an underground realm. It’s also arguably an example of this genre because of its attention to ideas about evolution, geology, and history. Thirdly, and perhaps most importantly, it thinks carefully about how the technology available during the period might be used to explore new arenas and make discoveries. Everything that happens to Axel and his companions happens as a result of a desire to advance scientific knowledge. The novel is notably packed with scientific language and allusions. At times, it can feel like Axel is trying to educate the reader as he learns about the earth beneath and around him.
Secondly, Journey to the Center of the Earth is undeniably an adventure novel. It’s a depiction of a perilous and exhilarating journey undertaken by multiple heroes with contrasting personalities. It has a young and naive person who grows up as its central character. The book is laden with tension and suspense as the characters navigate through dangerous scrapes and overcome a series of challenges that test their courage and resolve. The book is exciting and emotionally charged, with many surprising turns of events and startling twists.
Lastly, and relatedly, the novel is an example of exploration fiction. Journey to the Center of the Earth falls into this category because it’s focused on the discovery of unknown territories, wondrous landscapes, and generally on pushing the boundaries of the known world. Context is important here: in the Victorian period much of the world was ruled from a distance by western empires. Britain, Russia, Germany, France, Austria-Hungary, and Belgium, among others, controlled enormous swaths of the globe. Going to new places to “discover” them and use their resources was a common theme of literature of this period, as was the idea that spreading Western ideas was a morally good thing to do. The novel, in many ways, mirrors the colonial ideologies prevalent during the time of its publication.
Related Themes:
