Journey to the Center of the Earth · Chapter
III: The Runic Writing Exercises the Professor explained
Professor Liedenbrock deciphers a Runic cryptogram from an ancient parchment, identifying the name Arne Saknussemm and hypothesizing a hidden discovery.
What happens
Professor Liedenbrock deciphers a Runic cryptogram from an ancient parchment, identifying the name Arne Saknussemm and hypothesizing a hidden discovery. He attempts to decode the cipher using Latin and vertical writing methods, but fails, leading to a frustrated outburst.
Themes in this chapter
Scientific Curiosity and Ambition
The Professor's relentless drive to decode the cryptogram, believing it hides a great discovery, exemplifies scientific ambition.
The Limits of Human Knowledge
The initial failure to decode the cipher highlights the boundaries of current understanding and the challenge of unlocking ancient secrets.
Characters to notice
- Professor Otto Liedenbrock
Dictates the cryptogram, analyzes the parchment, identifies Saknussemm, and attempts to decode the cipher with logical methods.
- Axel Liedenbrock
Writes the dictated letters, reflects on his love for Gräuben, and assists in the decoding experiment.
- Gräuben
Mentioned in Axel's daydream and inadvertently in his written sentence; she is Axel's beloved and an accomplished mineralogist.
- Arne Saknussemm
Identified as the author of the cryptogram; a 16th-century Icelandic alchemist.
Key passages
“Undoubtedly it is Runic, but there is a secret in it, and I mean to discover the key.”
The Professor is certain the writing is Runic and vows to uncover its hidden meaning.
Demonstrates the Professor's determination and initial recognition of the cryptogram.
“Arne Saknussemm! Why that is the name of another Icelander, a savant of the sixteenth century, a celebrated alchemist!”
The Professor triumphantly identifies the author as Arne Saknussemm, a renowned 16th-century alchemist.
Key moment linking the cryptogram to a historical figure.
“I love you well, my own dear Gräuben!”
Axel inadvertently writes a love confession to Gräuben during the decoding exercise.
Reveals Axel's romantic feelings and provides a humorous interlude.