Jules Verne: The Life and Career of a Literary Giant

Jules Verne, a name synonymous with adventure, exploration, and visionary storytelling, was born in Nantes, France, on February 8, 1828. Born as the eldest son, Verne was initially expected to follow his father into the legal profession. However, his life took an unexpected turn after he moved to Paris in 1847 to study law, where he would witness the fall of the French Second Republic and discover a passion for literature. His journey from a aspiring lawyer to a renowned author and pioneer of science fiction is a testament to his unwavering dedication to his craft.

Early Beginnings and Legal Studies

Verne initially pursued a legal career, inspired by the ambition of his father. In 1847, at the age of 19, Jules moved to Paris to study law. Contrary to some sources, a chronology from the Jules Verne Society confirms his move in 1847. He passed his law studies in 1849, but his interest in literature rapidly overshadowed his legal pursuits. It was in Paris where he met notable figures like Alexandre Dumas, both father and son, with whom he became a close friend.

Shift in Career and Early Works

Despite his legal education, Verne's true passion was in literature. In 1852, when his father attempted to set him up with a legal practice in Nantes, Verne decisively refused. Instead, he focused on his theatrical ambitions, writing for the stage. His early works were primarily for the theater, though with limited success. A wikipedia entry mentions that he managed more in 'repartee' (quick wit in conversation) than in business. This period laid the foundation for his later endeavours in publishing and storytelling.

Marriage and Personal Life

Verne married Honorine de Viane Morel in 1856, a widow who had two children. Together, they had one child named Michel, who would later collaborate with his father. This personal life provided Verne with the stability and support necessary to pursue his literary ambitions.

Origin of a Legend: Partnership with Pierre-Jules Hetzel

The turning point in Verne's career came in 1862, when he met Pierre-Jules Hetzel, a publisher known for his family-oriented magazine, Aventures Extraordinaires (Extraordinary Adventures). Hetzel sought to create a series of adventure stories that could educate and entertain the entire family. Recognizing Verne's potential, Hetzel signed him to a contract. The first story Verne wrote for Hetzel was Five Weeks in a Balloon (1863), which combined accurate historical accounts of African exploration with thrilling adventure. This collaboration marked the beginning of Verne's prolific writing career and his enduring legacy.

The Legacy of Jules Verne

Today, Jules Verne is best known for his science fiction works, which anticipate many modern technologies and are recognized as early examples of science fiction. His books, such as Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, Journey to the Center of the Earth, and Mysterious Island, are celebrated globally. However, his writing is more than just science fiction; it is a celebration of geography, exploration, and the human spirit.

Unfortunately, Verne's works have been poorly translated, often leading to inaccuracies and alterations that detract from their intended impact. For instance, the 1959 film Journey to the Center of the Earth is based on a terrible translation that shifts the setting from Germany to Scotland. Similarly, the older translation of Mysterious Island is better but alters the character of Captain Nemo. The North American Jules Verne Society offers detailed information on translations of Verne's works, allowing readers to appreciate his true writing more accurately.

Conclusion

Jules Verne's life and career are a story of determination, passion, and innovation. From his early days as a lawyer to his later success as a writer and publisher, Verne's journey illustrates the power of pursuing one's true calling. His works continue to inspire generations and remind us of the boundless potential of human imagination and the quest for knowledge and adventure.