Journey to the Center of the Earth · Chapter
IX: Iceland! But What Next? explained
The chapter describes the departure from Copenhagen aboard the schooner Valkyria, the ten-day voyage to Iceland, and the arrival at Reykjavík.
What happens
The chapter describes the departure from Copenhagen aboard the schooner Valkyria, the ten-day voyage to Iceland, and the arrival at Reykjavík. Professor Liedenbrock suffers from seasickness throughout the journey, while Axel observes the coastlines and reflects on the adventure. Upon landing, they meet Governor Baron Trampe and other officials, and are hosted by Professor Fridrikssen. Axel explores the town, noting its bleak landscape, sparse vegetation, and the somber demeanor of the Icelandic people. The chapter ends with the Professor eager to begin the descent into Snæfells.
Themes in this chapter
Scientific Curiosity and Ambition
Professor Liedenbrock's relentless focus on reaching Snæfells and descending into the volcano, despite his seasickness, exemplifies his scientific obsession.
Human Endurance and Survival
The voyage itself tests the characters' endurance, with the Professor suffering greatly from seasickness, and the harsh Icelandic environment underscores the challenges of survival.
The Power of Nature
The chapter emphasizes the rugged Icelandic landscape—volcanic rocks, glaciers, stormy seas, and sparse vegetation—highlighting nature's dominance over human endeavors.
Characters to notice
- Axel Liedenbrock
Narrates the voyage and arrival; explores Reykjavík and reflects on the landscape and people.
- Professor Otto Liedenbrock
Suffers from seasickness during the voyage; upon arrival, eagerly points out Snæfells and meets with local officials.
- Hans Bjelke
Not directly mentioned in this chapter; no appearance.
- Gräuben
Not present in this chapter.
- M. Fridrikssen
Professor of natural sciences in Reykjavík; hosts Axel and the Professor, and converses with Axel in Latin.
- Baron Trampe
Governor of Iceland; greets the Professor and offers his services.
- Captain of the Valkyria
Captain Bjarne commands the schooner; provides passage and information about the voyage.
Key passages
“In an hour the capital of Denmark seemed to sink below the distant waves, and the Valkyria was skirting the coast by Elsinore.”
Within an hour, Copenhagen disappeared from view as the Valkyria sailed along the coast near Elsinore.
Describes the departure from Denmark and the initial leg of the voyage.
“The Professor at last emerged from his cabin, rather pale and wretched-looking, but still full of enthusiasm, and with ardent satisfaction shining in his eyes.”
The Professor finally came out of his cabin, pale and ill from seasickness, yet his eyes gleamed with eager excitement.
Highlights the Professor's determination despite physical discomfort.
“My uncle left in haste his floating prison, or rather hospital. But before quitting the deck of the schooner he dragged me forward, and pointing with outstretched finger north of the bay at a distant mountain terminating in a double peak, a pair of cones covered with perpetual snow, he cried: “Snæfells! Snæfells!””
My uncle quickly left the ship, which he called a prison or hospital, and before disembarking he pulled me forward, pointing north to a distant double-peaked mountain covered in snow, exclaiming 'Snæfells! Snæfells!'
Shows the Professor's immediate focus on the volcano upon arrival.
