Around the World in Eighty Days · Chapter
In which Phileas Fogg descends the whole length of the beautiful valley of the Ganges without ever thinking of seeing it. explained
After rescuing Aouda from suttee, the party travels by elephant and train through India.
What happens
After rescuing Aouda from suttee, the party travels by elephant and train through India. Aouda recovers and accepts Fogg's offer to escort her to Hong Kong. Sir Francis Cromarty departs at Benares. Fogg reaches Calcutta on schedule, having lost the two days gained earlier. Passepartout buys Aouda new clothes, and Fogg gives the elephant Kiouni to the Parsee guide.
Themes in this chapter
Adventure and Exploration
The chapter details the rapid journey through the Ganges valley, including the rescue of Aouda, the elephant ride, and the train travel, highlighting the adventurous spirit of the expedition.
Cultural Encounter and Imperialism
The narrative contrasts Indian traditions (suttee, sacred rivers, Brahmin rituals) with British colonial infrastructure (railways, steamers, English language), and comments on the anglicisation of India.
Determination and Resilience
Fogg's unwavering adherence to his schedule, despite the detour to rescue Aouda, and his calm decision-making under pressure exemplify his determination.
Characters to notice
- Phileas Fogg
Calmly continues his journey, offers to escort Aouda to Hong Kong, and gives the elephant to the Parsee guide.
- Passepartout
Celebrates his successful ruse, purchases clothes for Aouda in Allahabad, and receives praise from Sir Francis.
- Aouda
Recovers from the drug-induced stupor, thanks her rescuers, and accepts Fogg's protection to Hong Kong.
- Sir Francis Cromarty
Narrates the rescue to Aouda, reassures the party about her condition, and departs at Benares to rejoin his troops.
- The Parsee
Guides the elephant skillfully through the forest; receives Kiouni as a gift from Fogg.
- Kiouni
The elephant is given to the Parsee guide; lifts Passepartout with his trunk in gratitude.
Key passages
“The rash exploit had been accomplished; and for an hour Passepartout laughed gaily at his success.”
The daring rescue was complete, and Passepartout laughed joyfully for an hour about his successful trick.
Passepartout's elation after the suttee rescue.
“He told Phileas Fogg that, should Aouda remain in India, she would inevitably fall again into the hands of her executioners.”
Sir Francis warned Fogg that if Aouda stayed in India, she would surely be recaptured by the fanatics.
Sir Francis explains the danger Aouda still faces in India.
“Phileas Fogg replied that he would reflect upon the matter.”
Fogg said he would think about what to do.
Fogg's characteristic understatement before deciding to escort Aouda.
“The young woman was placed in one of the waiting-rooms of the station, whilst Passepartout was charged with purchasing for her various articles of toilet, a dress, shawl, and some furs; for which his master gave him unlimited credit.”
Aouda was settled in a station waiting room while Passepartout was sent to buy her clothes and accessories with an open budget from Fogg.
Passepartout's shopping errand in Allahabad.
“The Ganges, according to the legends of the Ramayana, rises in heaven, whence, owing to Brahma’s agency, it descends to the earth.”
Hindu legend says the Ganges originates in heaven and was brought to earth by Brahma.
Mythological description of the Ganges river.
“Phileas Fogg had already determined this question. 'Parsee,' said he to the guide, 'you have been serviceable and devoted. I have paid for your service, but not for your devotion. Would you like to have this elephant? He is yours.'”
Fogg had already decided: he told the Parsee guide that he had been paid for his work but not for his loyalty, and offered him the elephant as a gift.
Fogg's generous gift of Kiouni to the guide.
