Journey to the Center of the Earth · Chapter
X: Interesting Conversations with Icelandic Savants explained
Professor Liedenbrock and Axel dine with M.
What happens
Professor Liedenbrock and Axel dine with M. Fridrikssen in Reykjavík. The conversation reveals that Iceland's library books are circulated among the people rather than kept on shelves, and that the works of Arne Saknussemm were burned in 1573 due to heresy. Liedenbrock learns that Snæfells is a viable destination and that a guide, Hans Bjelke, will be available the next day. The professor conceals his true intentions but secures crucial information for the expedition.
Themes in this chapter
Scientific Curiosity and Ambition
Liedenbrock's intense desire to explore Snæfells and uncover Saknussemm's secret drives the conversation, despite his attempts to appear modest.
The Unknown and the Sublime
The discussion of Snæfells as a scarcely visited volcano and the hidden cryptogram evoke the allure of the unknown and the sublime in nature.
The Limits of Human Knowledge
The burning of Saknussemm's books and the professor's guarded secret highlight how knowledge can be suppressed or hidden, limiting human understanding.
Characters to notice
- Professor Otto Liedenbrock
Dines with M. Fridrikssen, feigns modesty about his plans, and learns that Saknussemm's works were burned and that a guide will be available.
- Axel Liedenbrock
Observes the dinner conversation and his uncle's attempts to hide excitement; understands the Latin exchange.
- M. Fridrikssen
Hosts the dinner, describes Iceland's library system, confirms the burning of Saknussemm's books, and offers to arrange a guide for the expedition.
- Arne Saknussemm
Discussed as a 16th-century savant whose works were burned for heresy; his hidden secret is hinted at by Liedenbrock.
- Hans Bjelke
Mentioned as the eiderdown hunter who will serve as guide; he speaks Danish and is expected the next day.
Key passages
“I hope you will not leave our island until you have seen some of its mineralogical wealth.”
M. Fridrikssen encourages Liedenbrock to explore Iceland's mineral riches before departing.
Fridrikssen's hospitality and pride in Iceland's natural resources.
“Because Arne Saknussemm was persecuted for heresy, and in 1573 his books were burned by the hands of the common hangman.”
M. Fridrikssen explains that Saknussemm's works were destroyed due to heresy charges.
Reveals the fate of Saknussemm's writings, confirming the need for a hidden cryptogram.
“I have one to offer you. A safe, intelligent man. An inhabitant of that peninsula. He is an eiderdown hunter, and very clever. He speaks Danish perfectly.”
Fridrikssen offers to provide a capable guide from the Snæfells peninsula who is an eiderdown hunter and speaks Danish.
Sets up the hiring of Hans Bjelke as the expedition guide.