The Readers Review: Literature from 1714 to 1910 discussion
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Journey to the Center of the Earth
Journey to the Ctr of the Earth
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Journey to the Center of the Earth - Week 3
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Lori wrote: " I don't have anything profound to say about the book."I rarely do but that never stops me from commenting anyway. But this time, I'll just post my review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
On second thought, I'll make one more observation on a point raised by Gem in her question:
Is it important to you that Verne's science "works," or is the sense of adventure more important?
Verne's books, which I've only read in Goodreads groups, seem more clinical than I had thought they would be. They are more explanatory than exciting in the reading. Part of the excitement of the adventure events is lessened for modern day readers by our exposure to so much more of science, technology and sci-fi and fantasy story events in the intervening 160 years.
I was a bit surprised in both Mysterious Island and this book by the science and technical explanations weighing as heavily or even more heavily than the adventure element. But it makes sense that Verne did focus on both. These books would have provided a valuable reading experience for the readers of the time. They would have not only provided a level of excitement difficult to reproduce in today's readers but would also have been incredibly informative to the contemporary readers.
To answer Gem's question, while adventure may be most important element, the sense of adventure is heightened and most effective when the science makes sense.
Week Three, Chapters 31 - 46
1) The explorers find a knife and markings left by Saknussemm. How does this moment alter the tone of the journey? Do you view Saknussemm as an inspiration, a rival, or a ghost from the past?
2) When the group discovers their route is blocked by a rock wall, how do you interpret Lidenbrock’s decision to use explosives? Is this act of destruction a bold solution or a reckless act of human domination over nature? The explosion opens a new passage—but it leads to unexpected danger. How does this moment shift the stakes?
3) As volcanic activity increases, the tone becomes more urgent. Do you sense panic or resolve in the group’s reactions? How does Verne maintain scientific curiosity even as danger looms?
4) The raft is swept into a rushing current. How do the characters respond differently to the crisis? Is this scene more thrilling or terrifying? Why? The group is thrown into a volcanic shaft in what becomes the novel’s most chaotic moment. Did you feel the tension peak here? How does Verne blend realism and fantasy during this sequence?
5) They are carried upward in what is revealed to be an active volcano. How do you interpret their miraculous survival? Does the use of a volcano as a literal exit feel satisfying, symbolic, or too convenient? They emerge from Stromboli in Italy rather than Iceland. How does this unexpected twist affect the story’s realism? Is it important to you that Verne's science "works," or is the sense of adventure more important?
6) Upon returning home, the group receives public recognition. Do you think Lidenbrock deserved the praise? Axel is reunited with Grauben. Does this subplot feel earned or secondary to the adventure?
How has Axel changed as a character, and what role did she play in that change, even from afar?
7) Hans is given a generous reward. What did you think of his role throughout the journey? Did he represent humility, quiet strength, or something else entirely?
8) In the closing chapter, Axel reflects on the journey. Do you find his final thoughts meaningful? What do you think Verne ultimately wanted readers to take away—about science, imagination, or humanity?