Who Professor Pierre Aronnax is
Professor Pierre Aronnax is a scholar from the Natural History Museum in Paris and an expert on sea life. His book about the deep sea brings him public attention when reports of a mysterious creature alarm sailors. He joins the warship Abraham Lincoln as a scientific adviser, believing the creature may be an enormous narwhal.
What Professor Pierre Aronnax wants
Aronnax wants to understand the ocean, and he is not sure he wants the supposed monster destroyed. Aboard the Nautilus, he gains the chance to observe sea life at close range. Underwater walks and the submarine's windows bring his scientific interests into direct contact with a world he longs to study.
Professor Pierre Aronnax and the others in the story
Captain Nemo fascinates Aronnax through his knowledge, his submarine, and his unexpected acts of kindness. Yet the captain refuses to let his guests return to land, leaving the professor divided between admiration and captivity.
Conseil, his calm and faithful servant, shares his interest in classifying living things. Ned Land wants escape, keeping the question of freedom before Aronnax amid the discoveries.
Questions
Who is Professor Pierre Aronnax?
He is the French expert on sea life who tells the novel's story.
Why does Aronnax join the hunt?
He accepts an invitation to serve as a scientific adviser and hopes to investigate the mysterious sea creature.
How does Aronnax feel about Captain Nemo?
He admires Nemo's knowledge but struggles with being held aboard his submarine. The captain's kindness and secrecy make him a puzzle to the professor.
