Journey to the Center of the Earth · Chapter
Vertical Descent explained
The expedition begins its descent into the volcanic chimney of Snæfells.
What happens
The expedition begins its descent into the volcanic chimney of Snæfells. Axel struggles with fear and vertigo but is shamed into proceeding by Hans's calm courage. Professor Liedenbrock devises a rope system for the descent, and they descend in stages, stopping for rest. After ten and a half hours, they reach the bottom of the chimney, where they camp for the night. Axel sees a star through the long tube above before falling asleep.
Themes in this chapter
Human Endurance and Survival
The descent tests the physical and mental endurance of the characters, especially Axel, who must overcome his terror to continue.
The Unknown and the Sublime
The vast, dark chimney and the abyss evoke a sense of the sublime; Axel's vertigo and the star seen from the depths highlight the awe and terror of the unknown.
Scientific Curiosity and Ambition
Professor Liedenbrock's relentless geological observations and theorizing even during the dangerous descent demonstrate his scientific drive.
Characters to notice
- Axel Liedenbrock
Experiences intense fear and vertigo before descending; shamed by Hans's calmness; reluctantly proceeds with the descent.
- Professor Otto Liedenbrock
Leads the descent with confidence; devises the rope system; continues geological theorizing about volcanic formations and central heat.
- Hans Bjelke
Remains calm and indifferent to danger; guides the descent; gives brief commands ('Giv akt!'); halts the group at the bottom.
Key passages
“I had not yet ventured to look down the bottomless pit into which I was about to take a plunge. The supreme hour had come.”
Axel had not dared to look into the seemingly endless pit he was about to enter, but the critical moment had arrived.
Axel's fear and the gravity of the descent are established.
“I felt my centre of gravity shifting its place, and giddiness mounting into my brain like drunkenness.”
Axel felt his balance failing and dizziness overwhelming him as if he were intoxicated.
Describes the physical sensation of vertigo when looking into the abyss.
“The farther I go the more confidence I feel. The order of these volcanic formations affords the strongest confirmation to the theories of Davy.”
Professor Liedenbrock expresses growing certainty that the rock layers support Sir Humphry Davy's theories about volcanic activity.
Shows the Professor's scientific focus even during the perilous descent.
“I opened my eyes and saw a bright sparkling point of light at the extremity of the gigantic tube 3,000 feet long, now a vast telescope.”
Lying on his back, Axel saw a star shining at the top of the 3,000-foot chimney, which now resembled a giant telescope.
A moment of wonder and perspective after the exhausting descent.