THEMES

Man’s Quest for Exploration The main theme in this novel is mankind’s need for exploration and
adventure. Professor Aronnax accepts the invitation to join the mission
because of his curiosity and the need to explore the truth behind the
mysterious sea monster. Captain Nemo takes the Nautilus to strange
places where no man would dare to venture into. For example, a coral
cemetery, pearl fisheries, Arabian tunnel, lost city of Atlantis and even the
South Pole. He travels under and on the surface of the sea because of his
interest for adventure and to explore new places.
Freedom Captain Nemo may be a free man but his freedom is only within Nautilus.
On the other hand, Professor Annorax, Ned Land and Conseil too enjoy
the similar kind of freedom. They are free to roam the Nautilus and
explore the undersea world but they can’t leave the Nautilus. They are all
prisoners within the freedom of the Nautilus. In the beginning, Arronax’s
curiosity to see the real wonders of the ocean makes him give up the idea
of leaving the ship. Later, he realizes nothing is worth his freedom and
attempts to escape the Nautilus. As for Ned Land, he has always wanted to
leave the ship.
Man Versus Nature Although Captain Nemo feels he has defied nature with his powerful
creation, many events show that he is still under the forces of nature. The
shark attack and the whirlpool events are clear examples of nature being
more powerful. Nemo builds the submarine to create his own world.
However, it is obvious that he still depends on the nature for his food.
Even the electricity needed to run his submarine comes from the processed
sea water.
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PRACTICE 2