Google has today released an interactive Google Doodle on their home page marking the 183rd birthday of Jules Verne, a French author best known for his novels: “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea” (1870), “A Journey to the Center of the Earth” (1864), and “Around the World in Eighty Days” (1873).
By using the lever on the right-hand side of the doodle, you can navigate the view below the waves and explore left and right a little way, and even try to locate a giant squid from the “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea” book. The interactive Google Doodle has been created using CSS3, and the Jules Verne book Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea can be downloaded here.
Jules Verne’s Impact on Literature and Science Fiction
Jules Verne is often referred to as one of the fathers of science fiction. His works have inspired countless readers and writers with their imaginative and forward-thinking concepts. “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea” introduced readers to the enigmatic Captain Nemo and his advanced submarine, the Nautilus, long before submarines became a reality. Verne’s ability to blend scientific facts with fiction made his stories not only entertaining but also educational.
In “A Journey to the Center of the Earth,” Verne takes readers on an expedition deep beneath the Earth’s surface, exploring subterranean worlds filled with prehistoric creatures and natural wonders. This novel has been adapted into numerous films, television series, and even inspired real-life scientific explorations.
“Around the World in Eighty Days” is another of Verne’s masterpieces, chronicling the adventures of Phileas Fogg as he attempts to circumnavigate the globe in just eighty days. This novel not only captivated readers with its thrilling plot but also highlighted the advancements in transportation and communication during the 19th century.
The Legacy of Jules Verne in Modern Media
Jules Verne’s influence extends beyond literature into various forms of modern media. His novels have been adapted into numerous films, television series, and even video games. The 1954 Disney film adaptation of “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea,” starring Kirk Douglas and James Mason, remains a classic to this day. The film’s depiction of the Nautilus and its underwater adventures brought Verne’s vision to life for a new generation of fans.
In recent years, Verne’s works have continued to inspire new adaptations and reinterpretations. The 2008 film “Journey to the Center of the Earth,” starring Brendan Fraser, brought Verne’s subterranean adventure to the big screen with modern special effects. Additionally, the steampunk genre, which combines Victorian-era aesthetics with advanced technology, owes much of its inspiration to Verne’s imaginative worlds.
Verne’s impact is also evident in the realm of video games. Titles such as “80 Days,” an interactive fiction game by Inkle Studios, allow players to experience the thrill of circumnavigating the globe in a manner reminiscent of Phileas Fogg’s journey. These adaptations and reinterpretations ensure that Verne’s legacy continues to thrive in contemporary culture.
The interactive Google Doodle celebrating Jules Verne’s 183rd birthday is a testament to his enduring influence. By allowing users to explore the underwater world of “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea,” Google pays homage to Verne’s pioneering spirit and his contributions to literature and science fiction. As technology continues to evolve, it is likely that Verne’s works will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.
Via Slashgear
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