The Coral Island · Chapter
XVII explained
The boys discuss an excursion to Penguin Island, but their plans are interrupted by a monstrous wave that crashes over the reef and floods the shore.
What happens
The boys discuss an excursion to Penguin Island, but their plans are interrupted by a monstrous wave that crashes over the reef and floods the shore. After the wave's aftermath, they launch their boat and sail to Penguin Island, where they observe the penguins' peculiar habits and behavior, concluding that they are the most wonderful creatures in the world.
Themes in this chapter
Adventure and Exploration
The boys' voyage to Penguin Island and their close encounter with a giant wave highlight the thrill and danger of exploration.
Nature and the Sublime
The monstrous wave inspires awe and fear, and the penguins' strange behaviors evoke wonder, emphasizing nature's power and mystery.
Characters to notice
- Ralph Rover
Narrates the chapter; participates in the excursion to Penguin Island and observes the penguins.
- Jack Martin
Leads the boat trip and makes observations about the penguins; jokes with Peterkin.
- Peterkin Gay
Eager to visit Penguin Island; engages in playful banter and attempts to block an old penguin's path to the sea.
Key passages
“It burst completely over the reef at all points, with a roar that seemed louder to me than thunder; and this roar continued for some seconds, while the wave rolled gradually along towards the cliff on which we stood. As its crest reared before us, we felt that we were in great danger, and turned to flee; but we were too late.”
The wave crashed over the reef with a thunderous roar, and as it rose up before them, they realized they were in peril and tried to run, but could not escape in time.
Describes the terrifying impact of the giant wave on the boys.
“We spent fully three hours on this island in watching the habits of these curious birds, and, when we finally left them, we all three concluded, after much consultation, that they were the most wonderful creatures we had ever seen; and further, we thought it probable that they were the most wonderful creatures in the world!”
After three hours of observing the penguins, the boys agreed that these birds were the most amazing they had ever encountered, possibly the most amazing in existence.
Summarizes the boys' awe and fascination with the penguins.