Kéraban the Inflexible: A New Translation

Jules Verne's Kéraban the Inflexible (Kéraban-le-Têtu), published in 1883, stands out as an unconventional adventure filled with humor, cultural exploration, and a stubborn protagonist whose resolve leads to an extraordinary journey. This novel diverges from Verne's usual speculative or scientific focus, offering instead a richly comedic and satirical tale set in the diverse landscapes surrounding the Black Sea.

At the center of the story is Kéraban, a wealthy and obstinate Turkish merchant who refuses to pay a trivial tax imposed on crossing the Bosphorus Strait by boat. Rather than comply, he insists on traveling the long and arduous route around the entire Black Sea coastline to return to his home in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul). Accompanied by his young assistant Ahmet and the French traveler Van Mitten, Kéraban's unwavering determination sets the stage for a series of misadventures.

The charm of Kéraban the Inflexible lies in its colorful characters, comedic tone, and richly detailed settings. Verne masterfully portrays Kéraban's unyielding nature, creating a protagonist whose pride and stubbornness drive both the humor and the tension of the narrative. Along the way, the travelers encounter diverse cultures, unexpected dangers, and an array of eccentric individuals, painting a vibrant picture of life in the Ottoman Empire and its surrounding regions.

While primarily an adventure and comedy, the novel subtly critiques human obstinacy and the absurdities of bureaucracy and social conventions. Kéraban's journey, though ludicrous in its premise, invites readers to reflect on the lengths people will go to uphold their principles-no matter how trivial the cause.

Kéraban the Inflexible offers readers a lighthearted yet insightful exploration of cultural diversity, human folly, and the adventure of travel. Verne's attention to geographical detail and his wit make the novel an engaging read that blends humor with exploration. It captures a time and place with authenticity and imagination, reminding us that even the most peculiar journeys can reveal universal truths about human nature.

For anyone intrigued by tales of unusual journeys, eccentric personalities, and the richness of 19th-century settings, Kéraban the Inflexible promises an enjoyable and memorable adventure. It is a testament to Verne's ability to weave humor and insight into a story that resonates long after the final page.