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The Poulps

Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea by Jules Verne · Episode 7 of 8

Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea was first published in 1870 by French science-fiction pioneer Jules Verne (1828–1905). It is one of the most celebrated scientific romances of the Victorian era, blending adventure, marine biology, and engineering marvel with profound moral questions about freedom, vengeance, and exile. Verne's vision of submarine exploration captivated generations and anticipated much of twentieth-century oceanography. This episode brings Aronnax face to face with the human cost of Nemo's isolation—the death of a fellow Frenchman—and with Nemo's absolute refusal to release his prisoners, even as the captain mourns and rages. The discovery of the Avenger's wreck foreshadows the darker confrontation to come. This text reflects its era; incidental period language has been modernized where appropriate.

Band

Red · Complex language and analysisTypical starting range: ages 15–17

Length

long · about 1582 words in 5 sections · 2 pictures

Source

Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea, Jules Verne

First published

see the About page in the reader

Regions

Canada · United States

Included formats

• · Web reader and PDF
• · EPUB for e-readers
• · Home-print sheet
• · Folded booklet
• · Binder edition (8.5 × 11)
• · Worksheet
• · Quick Check (10 questions) with answer key
• · Read-aloud script
• · Teacher’s Edition (members)

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