Skip to the content
The Library
of Alexandria

The Island of Doctor Moreau, Chapter 2 summary

Chapter 2 of 23 · 5 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 2, Edward Prendick wakes aboard the Ipecacuanha, where Montgomery treats his near starvation and listens to his account of the boat. As Prendick regains strength, animal noises disturb the cabin, and Montgomery's reluctance to discuss his unnamed island home leaves their destination uncertain.

What happens

  1. Prendick wakes in a small cabin and learns that a passing ship rescues him from a boat marked Lady Vain.
  2. His medical caregiver gives him a strengthening drink and explains that injections help him survive nearly thirty hours of unconsciousness.
  3. Animal noises and an argument interrupt their conversation before Prendick explains his background and experience in the boat.
  4. The two discuss science, and Montgomery recalls his student days and leaving his former life ten years ago.
  5. After a day of rest and food, Prendick borrows clothes and learns that the ship heads toward Hawaii.
  6. Montgomery says he must first disembark at his unnamed island home, then appears unwilling to answer further questions.

Free for 3 months

Get the full summary of The Island of Doctor Moreau, free

  • 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
  • Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.

In this chapter

What to notice

Montgomery identifies his home without giving Prendick a usable location. His evasive expression immediately afterward makes the destination a source of uncertainty.

Quick check

Where does Montgomery say the ship must leave him before reaching Hawaii?

Free for 3 months

Get the full summary of The Island of Doctor Moreau, free

  • 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
  • Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold

15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.

Try 3 months free