Project

Throughout the novel, Lidenbrock is both an observer and a rival of Nature. He has a scientist's appreciation for the natural world, and most of the time does not deliberately try to alter or destroy it. However, it is clear that he is no mere passive observer; after all, his goal of reaching the center of the Earth takes priority over unequivocal support and respect for Nature herself. In fact, occasionally Lidenbrock is quite dismissive of Nature, blithely assuming that she will provide for him and his companions when she has no reason to, and ignoring the ominous signs and warnings that she sets in their path. When the ultimate obstacle to their progress—the rock—reveals itself, Lidenbrock grants his approval to blow it up regardless of the consequences. Not long before, he had wildly boasted that he would beat Nature. Unfortunately for him, Nature has the last laugh, literally expelling him from her insides through a volcanic eruption.