# IV: It’s Just the Very Biggest Thing in the World explained — The Lost World

> Chapter companion for The Lost World by Arthur Conan Doyle.

## What happens

Malone is shown Challenger's photographic evidence of a lost world, including a pterodactyl wing bone, and becomes convinced of the discovery. Challenger explains the geological theory of a volcanic plateau preserving prehistoric life, recounts finding the remains of the American artist Maple White, and invites Malone to a lecture where he plans to publicly reveal his findings.

## Themes in this chapter

### Science vs. Skepticism

Challenger's struggle against incredulity and jealousy from the scientific establishment, and Malone's conversion from doubt to belief based on evidence.

### Truth and Deception

The theme of proving a seemingly impossible truth through photographs, sketches, and physical specimens, contrasted with accusations of faking.

### The Natural World and Prehistoric Life

Detailed description of the pterodactyl wing bone and the geological theory of a volcanic plateau preserving Jurassic-era creatures.

## Character check-ins

### Professor G. E. Challenger

Presents photographic and physical evidence to Malone, explains the geological origins of the plateau, and recounts finding Maple White's remains.

### E. D. Malone

Examines the evidence, becomes convinced of Challenger's claims, and expresses journalistic enthusiasm for the discovery.

### Maple White

The deceased American artist and poet whose sketchbook and remains were found by Challenger; his drawings provide key evidence of the lost world.

### Mr. Percival Waldron

Mentioned as a naturalist scheduled to lecture at the Zoological Institute's Hall, where Challenger plans to speak.

## Key lines

> It’s just the very biggest thing that I ever heard of!

This is the most extraordinary discovery I have ever encountered.

_Malone expresses his awe and conviction after examining Challenger's evidence._

> You are a Columbus of science who has discovered a lost world.

You are an explorer in the realm of science, having found a forgotten world.

_Malone compares Challenger's achievement to Columbus's discovery of the Americas._

> I understand evidence when I see it, and this should be good enough for anyone.

I recognize proof when I encounter it, and this evidence ought to convince anyone.

_Malone asserts the strength of Challenger's evidence._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_lost_world_se/chapters/iv-it-s-just-the-very-biggest-thing-in-the-world
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_lost_world_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_lost_world_se/chapters