The nineteenth century was defined by speed and precision, marking a time when technology seemed to promise everything. Notably, Jules Verne's early works omit the urban poverty, industrial pollution, and exploitation brought about by industrialization. In these stories, humans are in complete control of their machines, just as Phileas Fogg uses them to overcome every obstacle. Mastery over technology is the core theme of his entire journey. "After all, what did Fogg gain from his wager and efforts?" the author asks at the novel's end. "What had he brought back from this long and weary journey? Nothing, say you? Perhaps so, nothing but a charming woman who, strange as it may appear, made him the happiest of men!" However, readers realize that romance was never the peculiar Englishman’s objective; his true fulfillment comes from proving the promises of science, which he aimed to demonstrate.

The rapid pace enabled by modern technology is not merely a topic for an amusing wager; it is also incredibly efficient. Much like many of Verne's technological innovations, it promises an enhanced quality of life. It allows travelers such as Fogg to reach destinations that previously demanded endless journeys. It provides more leisure time and opportunities for other activities. In Fogg's situation, it even permits him to save Aouda despite his urgent circumstances. Although Around the World in Eighty Days is less scientific compared to most of Verne’s other works, even when writing for entertainment, his admiration for modern technology is evident whenever the storyline allows. As Fogg and Passepartout travel from San Francisco to New York, their train stops at Medicine Bow creek because the bridge is considered unsafe. An engineer among the passengers, named Forster, boldly states:

'Gentlemen, perhaps there is a way, after all, to get over.' But the bridge is unsafe, the conductor insisted. 'No matter,' Forster replied, 'I think that by putting on the very highest speed, we might have a chance of getting over.'

In this scenario, modern physics, applied to a practical problem, comes to the rescue.

Around the World in Eighty Days is an exemplary narrative of travel adventure, captivating readers with its dynamic storytelling. It adheres to a traditional format, with the story unfolding in chronological order and narrated by a consistent third-person voice. This structure lends a sense of continuity and clarity, allowing readers to become fully immersed in the unfolding journey. While dialogue is present, it serves to enhance the action rather than divert from it, keeping the narrative's pace brisk and engaging.

Although the novel offers fleeting insights into cultural practices and customs, these elements are woven seamlessly into the fabric of the story, ensuring they do not disrupt its momentum. The reader encounters snippets of religious traditions in India and Utah and briefly touches upon American political customs, yet these are not extensively explored. Instead, they serve as colorful backdrops, enriching the adventure without detracting from its primary focus on the thrilling exploration across diverse landscapes.

The narrative intricately weaves elements reminiscent of both an odyssey and a quixotic quest. Embarking on a journey fraught with formidable challenges and adversaries, the protagonists must navigate a labyrinth of obstacles, triumphing only through near-superhuman efforts. Central to the quixotic dimension of the tale is the whimsical inception of the journey itself—a mere spur-of-the-moment decision and a wager fueling the adventure. In this respect, the tale mirrors the journey of Don Quixote, where the voyage is as much about the inner transformation as it is about the external challenges faced.

In the end, much like Quixote's return home at the conclusion of his first book, Fogg finds himself back in familiar surroundings, tarnished by the ignominious circumstances of their arrivals. The pursuits of both characters, initially embarked upon with lofty goals, yield little in the way of tangible gains. Fogg, despite his global circumnavigation, does not come away with monetary rewards, and Quixote has not succeeded in his quest to uplift society. Instead, both protagonists inadvertently impose difficulties upon themselves and their companions through their ventures.

Yet, there is a subtle resolution in their respective journeys. Quixote regains his sanity, suggesting further adventures might lie ahead; similarly, the culmination of Fogg's journey is marked by a personal triumph—his newfound relationship with his wife. These conclusions offer a nuanced reflection on the true nature of quests, where the essence of the journey often transcends the initial objectives, reshaping the travelers in unforeseen ways.