Around the World in Eighty Days · Chapter
In which Passepartout receives a new proof that fortune favors the brave explained
Phileas Fogg, Sir Francis Cromarty, Passepartout, and a Parsee guide plot to rescue Aouda, a young Parsee widow, from being forced onto her husband's funeral pyre.
What happens
Phileas Fogg, Sir Francis Cromarty, Passepartout, and a Parsee guide plot to rescue Aouda, a young Parsee widow, from being forced onto her husband's funeral pyre. After failed attempts to enter the pagoda, Passepartout cleverly impersonates the dead rajah, snatches Aouda from the pyre, and the group escapes on their elephant.
Themes in this chapter
Determination and Resilience
Fogg and his companions persist in their rescue attempt despite multiple setbacks and the risk of torture or death.
Cultural Encounter and Imperialism
The chapter depicts the clash between British/European values and the Indian practice of suttee, highlighting themes of intervention and moral judgment.
Adventure and Exploration
The daring nighttime rescue, stealthy movements, and escape through the forest embody the adventurous spirit of the journey.
Characters to notice
- Phileas Fogg
Calmly leads the rescue plan, risking his tour and liberty; shows hidden compassion.
- Passepartout
Devises and executes the daring impersonation of the dead rajah to save Aouda.
- Aouda
The victim of the suttee, a beautiful Parsee widow rescued by the group.
- Sir Francis Cromarty
Enthusiastic ally in the rescue, provides moral support and practical advice.
- The Parsee
The guide who leads the group, familiar with the pagoda and the customs.
Key passages
“His master’s idea charmed him; he perceived a heart, a soul, under that icy exterior. He began to love Phileas Fogg.”
Passepartout was delighted by Fogg's plan and saw for the first time the warmth and humanity beneath his master's cold demeanor, feeling genuine affection for him.
Highlights Passepartout's growing loyalty and emotional connection to Fogg.
“The old rajah was not dead, then, since he rose of a sudden, like a spectre, took up his wife in his arms, and descended from the pyre in the midst of the clouds of smoke, which only heightened his ghostly appearance.”
The crowd was terrified when the supposedly dead rajah suddenly stood up, grabbed his wife, and stepped off the burning pyre, appearing like a ghost in the smoke.
Describes Passepartout's clever impersonation and the dramatic moment of rescue.