A mysterious sea monster attacks ships on the high seas. The U.S. government commissions an expedition to destroy the monster. The expedition fails to find the beast, but encounters Captain Nemo and his submarine. Nemo operates independently of any government and is interested in exploration and vengeance against the modern world. The book describes the use of electricity seven years before Edison’s light bulb, diving suits, and the aforementioned submarine. The crew also battles a giant octopus. Eventually, the members of the original punitive expedition escape from Nemo who disappears into a maelstrom. Other than the futuristic use of electricity and underwater technology, the book delves into issues surrounding the industrial revolution and various revolutions from 1848. Jules Verne also alludes to the 1857 Indian Mutiny. Nemo is presented as a champion of the underdog and a modern day Odysseus. As a result, Verne’s work not only predicts future technology, but also includes political commentary disguised as an underwater adventure.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment