Jules Verne’s Use of Victorian Scientific Models

Jules Verne’s Use of Victorian Scientific Models

Quentin R. Skrabec

University of Toledo (Retired)

Abstract

The extent of Jules Verne’s knowledge and understanding of Victorian science is the key to Verne’s futurism. Verne refused to be called a scientist; however, it was the combination of storytelling and science that attracted so many readers. Verne anchors his works in contemporary science and exploration, allowing him to project into the future. Part of Verne’s perpetuity is directly related to the foundational influence of Victorian scientific theories in present-day science and engineering.  This scientific foundation allows Verne’s visions to be reborn even today in such areas as sea illumination, compressed air storage of energy, air batteries, liquid air engines, carbon dioxide engines, space cannons, pneumatic air trains, hydrogen-fueled vehicles, circular cities, floating cities, economic hydrogen production through electrolysis, wind power and tractor rays. This paper deals with Verne’s use of the theories of Victorian scientists and polymaths such as Humphrey Davy, François Arago, Michael Faraday, James Maxwell, Heinrich Hertz, Charles Sainte-Claire Deville, Elie de Beaumont, Louis Figuier, and adventurers such as Jacques Arago, Alexander von Humboldt, Jean Chaffanjon, and Camille Flammarion to define the future. The article looks at specific examples of Victorian scientific applications in various Verne novels. Finally, we will look at Verne’s visionary methodology for the future of technology.

About the Author:

Quentin R. Skrabec is a full-time researcher in engineering futurism, Jules Verne, Victorian science, the intersection of culture and engineering, and metallurgical studies. His education includes a BS in Engineering from the University of Michigan, an MS in Engineering from Ohio State, and a Ph.D. in Manufacturing Management from the University of Toledo. He has appeared on both PBS and the History Channel. His work has been used to provide expert opinions in the Wall Street Journal, USA TODAY, and Business Investor Daily. He has published over a hundred articles and twenty-five books in science, science fiction and engineering. In addition, he has published two business history encyclopedias for Greenwood (ABC-CLIO), The 100 Most Significant Events in American Business (Won National Library Association Best Business Reference in 2015) and The 100 Most Important American Financial Crises.

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Published: 2025 – 07 – 01