Analysis of Chapter 30 in Around the World in 80 Days.

In Chapter Thirty, Fogg is undergoing the transformation expected of a protagonist on a journey. As time goes on, his tough and stoic outer exterior begins to give way as he shows true affection for both Passepartout and Aouda. He was willing to lose his wager to rescue Passepartout from the Sioux, and he consistently shows gentlemanly cordiality and care to Aouda, wanting to keep her safe and protected. Fogg's softer side is certainly emerging as they near the end of the trip.

Just like with the tribes living in India, Verne depicts the American Indians that attack the train as savage, wild, and almost less-than-humans. He describes them descending in swarms and being picked off like a herd of animals by the courageous train passengers. In this scene, the contrast between late 19th century visions of "civilized" and "uncivilized" peoples is presented, a troubling theme that permeates this entire novel.