Round the Moon · Chapter
Lunar Landscapes explained
As the projectile approaches the moon, Barbicane, Nicholl, and Michel Ardan observe the lunar surface in detail, noting its varied colors, long crevices, and harsh contrasts caused by the absence of an atmosphere.
What happens
As the projectile approaches the moon, Barbicane, Nicholl, and Michel Ardan observe the lunar surface in detail, noting its varied colors, long crevices, and harsh contrasts caused by the absence of an atmosphere. They debate the possibility of lunar life and pass over the Sea of Rains, Mounts La Condamine and Fontenelle, and the Black Lake Pluto, before crossing into the moon's shadow at the pole.
Themes in this chapter
Scientific Exploration and Discovery
Barbicane's detailed observations of lunar colors, crevices, and the absence of atmosphere exemplify the scientific method applied to lunar geography.
The Sublime and the Unknown
The travelers confront the alien, stark lunar landscape with its harsh contrasts and mysterious features, evoking awe and the limits of human understanding.
Imagination vs. Reality
Michel's playful speculation about cultivated fields contrasts with Nicholl's and Barbicane's more grounded scientific explanations, highlighting the tension between fancy and fact.
Characters to notice
- Impey Barbicane
Leads the observations, explains lunar crevices and color variations, and regrets not being able to guide the projectile.
- Michel Ardan
Jokingly compares lunar crevices to ploughed fields and expresses a desire to jump onto the lunar surface.
- Captain Nicholl
Skeptical of Michel's fanciful ideas, notes the absence of life, and discusses the possibility of an atmosphere in cavities.
Key passages
“Why, there are cultivated fields!”
Michel Ardan exclaims that the long white lines on the moon look like ploughed fields.
Shows Michel's imaginative interpretation of lunar crevices.
“They are not furrows, they are crevices!”
Nicholl corrects Michel, stating the lines are actually crevices.
Highlights the contrast between scientific accuracy and fanciful thinking.
“So, there is nobody after all.”
Michel expresses disappointment at seeing no signs of life on the moon.
Reflects the travelers' ongoing search for lunar inhabitants.