Around the World in Eighty Days · Chapter
In which Passepartout undergoes, at a speed of twenty miles an hour, a course of Mormon history. explained
During the train journey towards the Great Salt Lake, Passepartout attends a lecture by Elder William Hitch on Mormon history, learning about Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, and the persecutions faced by the Latter Day Saints.
What happens
During the train journey towards the Great Salt Lake, Passepartout attends a lecture by Elder William Hitch on Mormon history, learning about Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, and the persecutions faced by the Latter Day Saints. The train passes the Great Salt Lake, and the party visits Salt Lake City. A belated Mormon boards the train, revealing he has only one wife, which he considers enough.
Themes in this chapter
Cultural Encounter and Imperialism
Passepartout's exposure to Mormon beliefs and practices highlights the encounter between different cultures and the tensions between the Mormon community and the U.S. government.
Adventure and Exploration
The train journey across the American West, the visit to Salt Lake City, and the observation of the Great Salt Lake contribute to the sense of exploration and discovery.
Characters to notice
- Passepartout
Attends the Mormon lecture and explores Salt Lake City, observing the local customs with curiosity and some alarm.
- Phileas Fogg
Does not attend the lecture but accompanies the party to visit Salt Lake City during the train stop.
- Fix
Also does not attend the lecture; remains with Mr. Fogg during the stop.
- Elder William Hitch
Delivers a passionate lecture on Mormonism on the train, recounting the history of the Latter Day Saints.
Key passages
“I tell you that Joe Smith is a martyr, that his brother Hiram is a martyr, and that the persecutions of the United States Government against the prophets will also make a martyr of Brigham Young.”
Elder Hitch declares that Joseph Smith and his brother Hiram were martyrs, and that the U.S. government's persecution will make Brigham Young a martyr as well.
This quote captures the missionary's impassioned defense of Mormon leaders against government oppression.
“One, sir, and that was enough!”
The belated Mormon tells Passepartout that he has only one wife, and that one is more than sufficient.
This humorous remark contrasts with the common perception of Mormon polygamy and provides a lighthearted end to the chapter.