The First Men in the Moon · Chapter
The Building of the Sphere explained
Cavor reveals his plan to build a Cavorite sphere for space travel, initially proposing a trip to the Moon and beyond.
What happens
Cavor reveals his plan to build a Cavorite sphere for space travel, initially proposing a trip to the Moon and beyond. Bedford, after initial skepticism, becomes enthusiastic and they work tirelessly to construct the sphere. As completion nears, Bedford experiences a crisis of fear and doubt, briefly deciding not to join the voyage.
Themes in this chapter
Scientific Hubris and Its Consequences
Cavor's ambitious plan to build a Cavorite sphere and travel to the Moon embodies the risks and overconfidence of unchecked scientific ambition.
Colonialism and Exploitation
Bedford's vision of 'planetary rights of preemption' and mining the Moon for gold and minerals echoes colonial resource extraction.
Human Nature and Irrationality
Bedford's sudden shift from enthusiasm to paralyzing fear highlights the irrational and emotional side of human decision-making.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Bedford
Bedford transitions from doubt to enthusiasm about the sphere project, but later experiences a night of terror and briefly decides not to go.
- Mr. Cavor
Cavor conceives the sphere design, explains its mechanics, and drives the construction with relentless energy.
- Gibbs
Gibbs, one of the workmen, becomes infected by the enthusiasm and moves about with a 'fussy run.'
Key passages
“We’ll settle all that! We’ll start the drawings for mouldings this very night.”
Cavor declares they will resolve all difficulties and begin designing the sphere immediately.
Shows Cavor's impulsive determination once Bedford's opposition is removed.
“I’m not coming with you in the sphere.”
Bedford tells Cavor he will not join the lunar voyage.
Highlights Bedford's sudden fear and doubt after a sleepless night.
“A man who leaves the world when days of this sort are about is a fool!”
Bedford remarks that abandoning Earth on such a beautiful day is foolish.
Reflects his internal conflict and appreciation for earthly life.