The Mysterious Island · Chapter
LXII explained
The colonists, stranded on a tiny rock after the destruction of Lincoln Island, face imminent death from starvation and thirst.
What happens
The colonists, stranded on a tiny rock after the destruction of Lincoln Island, face imminent death from starvation and thirst. After nine days, they are miraculously rescued by the Duncan, commanded by Robert Grant, who had been guided by a notice left by Captain Nemo. The colonists return to America, purchase land in Iowa, and establish a prosperous colony named after their lost island, never forgetting their experiences or Captain Nemo.
Themes in this chapter
Providence and Mystery
The rescue by the Duncan is portrayed as an act of divine providence, and Captain Nemo's mysterious final intervention underscores the theme.
Redemption and Transformation
Ayrton's redemption is completed as he is welcomed back; the colonists transform from castaways to prosperous settlers.
Characters to notice
- Cyrus Smith
Remains calm and leads the group; expresses gratitude to Providence and Captain Nemo for their rescue.
- Ayrton
Saves the coffer at risk of his life; first to spot the Duncan; his expiation is recognized by Smith.
- Pencroff
Despairs on the rock but later becomes a successful farmer; acknowledges Captain Nemo's final service.
- Gideon Spilett
Nervous during the ordeal; later founds the New Lincoln Herald.
- Herbert Brown
Stays close to Smith; finishes his studies under Smith's direction after rescue.
Key passages
“An isolated rock, thirty feet long, fifteen feet wide, rising ten feet above the surface of the water, this was the sole solid point which had not vanished beneath the waves of the Pacific.”
The only remaining land after the island's destruction was a small rock, thirty feet by fifteen, ten feet high.
Describes the colonists' final refuge.
“It is the Duncan , murmured Ayrton, and then he fell senseless upon the rock.”
Ayrton whispered 'The Duncan' and collapsed.
Ayrton recognizes the rescue ship.
“Oh, all powerful Providence! thou hast wished that we should be saved!”
Smith thanks Providence for their salvation.
Expresses the theme of divine intervention.
“where you left a criminal, you have found a man whom expiation has made honest, and to whom I am proud to give my hand!”
Smith tells Grant that Ayrton, once a criminal, has been reformed through his penance.
Highlights Ayrton's redemption.