A Journey to the Centre of the Earth
by Jules Verne
Young Harry is unwillingly drawn into an audacious expedition led by his eccentric uncle, Professor Hardwigg, to journey to the Earth's center. Following a coded parchment found in an ancient Icelandic text, they descend into Mount Sneffels in Iceland. Their perilous underground adventure leads them through vast caverns, past prehistoric wonders, across a luminous Central Sea, and through a furious elemental storm, only to be erupted from an active volcano in Stromboli, Sicily, a continent away.
Professor Hardwigg
A German Professor of Philosophy, Chemistry, Geology, Mineralogy, and other 'ologies', about fifty years old; tall, thin, and wiry. He has large spectacles that obscure his vast, round, goggle eyes, and a nose 'irreverently compared to a thin file.' He is choleric, original, and moves with large strides, clenching his fists. Before the journey, he is easily irate; after, his experiences soften him slightly but increase his determination.
Harry Lawson
Professor Hardwigg's orphaned nephew, approximately 19-20 years old, who acts as the narrator. He is generally less robust and more sensitive than his uncle, prone to vertigo, fear, and philosophical contemplation. He possesses a strong sense of scientific curiosity but is balanced by prudence and self-preservation.
Hans
An Icelandic eider-down hunter, tall, of Herculean build, with very long, red hair and simple, naive features masking keen intelligence. He is profoundly calm, phlegmatic, and economical in his movements and words. He rarely shows emotion but is intensely capable and loyal.
Gretchen
Harry's beautiful cousin and fiancée. She is described as pretty, with a spirited and adventurous nature, despite being primarily associated with the domestic comforts of home.
Arne Saknussemm
A 16th-century Icelandic alchemist, scholar, and explorer whose coded message initiates the expedition. Though deceased for centuries, his presence and genius loom large over the narrative, serving as a phantom guide.
M. Fridriksson
Professor of natural science at the college of Reykjavik. A modest and amiable scholar who speaks only Icelandic and Latin. He is knowledgeable about Icelandic history and local geology.
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