The Adventures of Captain Hatteras · Chapter
Altamont's Revenge explained
Hatteras, Altamont, and Dr.
What happens
Hatteras, Altamont, and Dr. Clawbonny hunt musk-oxen. Hatteras is attacked by two oxen and nearly killed, but Altamont saves his life. The two rivals reconcile, shake hands, and agree to share the glory of reaching the North Pole. Dr. Clawbonny celebrates their newfound brotherhood, and they return to Fort Providence where Johnson and Bell welcome them.
Themes in this chapter
Friendship and Companionship
The reconciliation between Hatteras and Altamont, fostered by Dr. Clawbonny, exemplifies the power of friendship to overcome national rivalry.
Human Endurance and Survival
The hunt for musk-oxen and the life-saving rescue highlight the physical challenges and survival instincts required in the Arctic.
National Rivalry and Patriotism
The initial tension between Englishman Hatteras and American Altamont, and their eventual agreement to set aside nationality for a common goal, directly addresses this theme.
Characters to notice
- John Hatteras
Nearly killed by musk-oxen, saved by Altamont; reconciles with his rival and invites him to share the glory of the North Pole.
- Dr. Clawbonny
Hunts with the party, celebrates the reconciliation, and declares the two men brothers.
- Altamont
Saves Hatteras's life at risk to himself, reconciles with Hatteras, and joins the expedition to the North Pole.
- Johnson
At Fort Providence with Bell, welcomes the returning party and shakes Altamont's hand.
- Bell
At Fort Providence with Johnson, part of the welcoming group.
- Duke
Hatteras's dog, helps track the musk-oxen and harries them during the hunt.
Key passages
“You have saved my life, Altamont." "You saved mine," answered the American. There was a moment's silence. Then Altamont added, "We are now quits, Hatteras!" "No, Altamont," answered the captain; "when the doctor took you from your icy tomb, I did not know who you were, and you have saved me at the risk of your own life, knowing who I was."”
Hatteras acknowledges that Altamont saved him knowing full well who he was, making the debt unequal and deeper than a simple exchange.
This exchange marks the turning point in their relationship, moving from rivalry to mutual respect.
“Ah, my friends," he murmured, as he dried his eyes, "how can my heart hold the joy with which you fill it? My dear companions, you have sacrificed a miserable question of nationality in order to unite in your common success!”
Dr. Clawbonny expresses overwhelming joy that Hatteras and Altamont have set aside national pride to work together.
The doctor's emotional reaction underscores the thematic importance of unity over rivalry.