The Mysterious Island

Messages are important symbols in the novel, representing civilization and the bonds of humanity. When Cyrus is initially reluctant to agree to a voyage to Tabor Island, his mind changes when the men discover a message in a bottle sent by a castaway. Cyrus believes that sailing out immediately to rescue the castaway is the right thing to do, reflecting the island community’s ethical commitment to supporting other human beings in need. This leads them to Aryton, who, although he did not write the message, is nevertheless a castaway in need of help and human solidarity.

A similar message appears at the end of the novel when the men discover that Captain Nemo left a message on Tabor Island revealing their whereabouts so that the Duncan would eventually come to their rescue. Captain Nemo’s message saves the lives of all the men, who are about to perish when the Duncan finally appears. Messages thus symbolize the ways in which humans can connect with and support one another, reflecting The Importance of Friendship and Camaraderie in human survival.