Journey to the Center of the Earth · Chapter
XXII: Total Failure of Water explained
The expedition descends through a new gallery, passing through primitive rock formations including schist, gneiss, and mica schist, and finally into granite.
What happens
The expedition descends through a new gallery, passing through primitive rock formations including schist, gneiss, and mica schist, and finally into granite. Despite the geological marvels, no water is found. Axel collapses from exhaustion and despair, believing all is lost. In the night, he notices Hans leaving with the lamp, initially fearing abandonment but then suspecting the Icelander may have heard something promising.
Themes in this chapter
Human Endurance and Survival
Axel's physical collapse and the group's desperate search for water highlight the limits of human endurance in extreme conditions.
The Limits of Human Knowledge
Despite the geological wonders they observe, the expedition is powerless against the fundamental lack of water, underscoring the boundaries of human understanding and control.
Characters to notice
- Axel Liedenbrock
Axel suffers horribly from thirst and exhaustion, collapses, and falls into despair, believing the expedition is doomed.
- Professor Otto Liedenbrock
The Professor stubbornly continues the descent despite the lack of water, and mutters 'It's all over!' when Axel collapses.
- Hans Bjelke
Hans leads the way as usual, and later in the night leaves the camp with the lamp, prompting Axel's fear of abandonment.
Key passages
“Here are primitive rocks. Now we are in the right way. Forward!”
The Professor declares they have entered the ancient rock formations and are on the correct path, urging the group onward.
Highlights the Professor's unwavering confidence in their geological route.
“It's all over!”
The Professor admits defeat after Axel collapses, signaling the dire situation.
A rare moment of despair from the usually optimistic Professor.
“Hans has abandoned us”
Axel fears that Hans has left them to die in the darkness.
Shows Axel's panic and the fragility of trust under extreme stress.