Jules Verne, the celebrated 19th-century French author, is primarily known for his science fiction works that anticipated many technological innovations. His approach to writing was rooted in scientific research: Before penning his novels, he meticulously studied scientific journals and consulted with experts across various fields. This approach allowed him to incorporate authentic medical knowledge into his narratives, often blending existing medical practices with speculative advances.

In “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea” (1870), Captain Nemo’s submarine features a well-equipped medical bay with advanced surgical instruments. Verne describes treatments for decompression sickness, a condition barely understood at that time, but which would become critically important as deep-sea diving evolved in subsequent decades.

“Dr. Ox’s Experiment” (1872) explores the psychological and physiological effects of oxygen enrichment on a small town’s population. This novella anticipated oxygen therapy, which would later become a cornerstone of respiratory medicine. Verne’s description of behavioral changes under different atmospheric conditions foreshadowed our understanding of how oxygen levels affect brain function and behavior.

“The Mysterious Island” (1874) contains notable medical elements, including detailed descriptions of emergency medical procedures performed with limited resources. The character Cyrus Smith applies scientific principles to treat injuries and illness, showcasing Verne’s understanding of practical medicine.

 In “Around the World in Eighty Days” (1872), Phileas Fogg meticulously plans for potential health hazards during his journey, carrying appropriate medications and adhering to strict hygiene practices to prevent illness—a progressive approach for the time.

Verne also explored medical ethics and philosophy. In “The Begum’s Millions” (1879), he presents contrasting visions of medical care: one city embraces preventive medicine and public health measures, while another prioritizes profit over well-being. This dichotomy reflects debates about healthcare delivery that continue to resonate today.

Verne also ventured into psychological medicine, examining the mental states of his characters with remarkable insight. In “Journey to the Center of the Earth” (1864), he describes the psychological effects of prolonged isolation and environmental stress—concepts that would later become important in space medicine and extreme environment psychology.

While Verne was not a medical professional, his literary exploration of medical concepts has influenced generations of physicians and researchers. His ability to envision medical technologies before their time—such as telemedicine in “Paris in the Twentieth Century” and life-support systems in various works—demonstrates how literature can inspire medical innovation.