Around the World in Eighty Days by Jules Verne Summary

In "Around the World in 80 Days," the story follows the precise and methodical Englishman Phileas Fogg, who wagers with fellow members of the Reform Club that he can circumnavigate the globe in just 80 days. The year is 1872, and this seemingly impossible task is set against the backdrop of a world full of technological wonders and colonial adventures.

Fogg sets off from London accompanied by his newly hired French valet, Jean Passepartout. Their first leg of the journey takes them to Suez, Egypt, where they encounter delays due to political unrest. Undeterred, Fogg manages to secure passage on a steamer bound for Bombay, India. Along the way, they rescue a young Indian woman named Aouda from a forced marriage, who joins them on their journey.

Their adventures take them through various challenges, including a train robbery in the American Wild West, a typhoon in the Pacific Ocean, and a confrontation with Sioux warriors in America. Despite these obstacles, Fogg remains determined to stay on schedule, adhering strictly to his itinerary.

As they race against time, Fogg and his companions encounter Inspector Fix of Scotland Yard, who mistakenly believes Fogg to be a bank robber and follows them throughout their journey, hoping to arrest him once they return to London.

In the final stretch of their journey, Fogg and his companions face their greatest challenge yet as they attempt to cross the Atlantic Ocean. Their vessel, the Henrietta, encounters heavy fog, slowing their progress and threatening to derail Fogg's plans. However, through sheer determination and resourcefulness, they manage to reach Liverpool just in time to catch the last train back to London.

Arriving at the Reform Club with only minutes to spare, Fogg is declared the winner of the bet, having completed his journey around the world in precisely 80 days. However, his victory is bittersweet as he realizes that he has lost a day due to crossing the International Date Line, and thus technically exceeded the allotted time.

Despite this setback, Fogg's companions rally behind him, arguing that he actually gained a day when traveling eastward, and therefore, he has indeed won the bet. The club members ultimately agree, and Fogg's honor is restored. Additionally, it is revealed that the real reason for Fix's pursuit was to delay Fogg's return to London long enough for the statute of limitations on the bank robbery charge to expire, absolving Fogg of any wrongdoing.

In the end, Fogg is not only vindicated but also finds love with Aouda, whom he marries. The novel concludes with Fogg and Aouda embarking on a new journey together, symbolizing the triumph of adventure, perseverance, and the human spirit.