The Mysterious Island · Chapter
The Last Hours of Captain Nemo explained
Captain Nemo, nearing death, reveals his final wishes to the colonists.
What happens
Captain Nemo, nearing death, reveals his final wishes to the colonists. He asks to be buried in the Nautilus, which will be sunk in the grotto. He bequeaths a coffer of treasures to the colonists, instructing them to use it for good. After his death, they fulfill his wishes, closing the hatch and opening the sea-cocks to sink the vessel.
Themes in this chapter
Redemption and Transformation
Captain Nemo's final moments reveal a transformation from a vengeful exile to a benevolent figure seeking peace and legacy.
Isolation and Longing for Home
Nemo expresses regret for his solitary life and acknowledges the colonists' desire to return to their homeland.
Providence and Mystery
The mysterious circumstances of Nemo's life and death, along with the hidden treasure, underscore the theme of unseen forces guiding the colonists.
Characters to notice
- Captain Nemo
Dies peacefully after revealing his past and final wishes; asks to be buried in the Nautilus.
- Cyrus Smith
Leads the colonists, promises to fulfill Nemo's wishes, and closes the captain's eyes after death.
- Pencroff
Expresses admiration for Nemo and reluctance to use a submarine; weeps at Nemo's death.
- Gideon Spilett
Observes Nemo's decline, discusses submarine navigation, and remains immobile during the death scene.
- Herbert Brown
Attempts to protest Nemo's prediction of death; weeps alongside Pencroff.
- Ayrton
Wipes away a tear at Nemo's death and comments on the Nautilus's potential use.
Key passages
“I die from having believed that man could live alone!”
Nemo admits that his belief in self-sufficient solitude led to his demise.
Reflects theme of isolation and the need for community.
“The Nautilus is imprisoned in this grotto. But if she cannot leave this prison, she can at least sink herself in the abyss, which will cover her and guard my mortal remains.”
Nemo explains that although the Nautilus cannot escape the cave, it can be submerged to serve as his tomb.
Highlights Nemo's final wish and the symbolic burial at sea.
“With this treasure, you will be able, sometime, to accomplish good.”
Nemo entrusts the colonists with a fortune to be used for benevolent purposes.
Emphasizes the theme of redemption and legacy.