Hergé’s Adventures of Tintin: ‘Tintin in Tibet’
Whilst none of Hergé’s works in The Adventures of Tintin series are set around Christmas, we thought it fitting to focus on one that prominently features snow.
Tintin in Tibet – A Detailed Plot Summary
Tintin in Tibet (Tintin au Tibet), first published in 1960, is one of Hergé’s most emotional and critically acclaimed adventures. It tells a deeply personal story of friendship, perseverance, and faith, notable for its lack of antagonists and its focus on human resilience and compassion.
Opening: The Ominous Dream
The story begins with Tintin and Captain Haddock vacationing at a resort in the French Alps. While relaxing, Tintin falls asleep and experiences a vivid, unsettling dream in which his friend Chang Chong-Chen, introduced in The Blue Lotus, appears injured and calling for help in a snowy, desolate landscape.
The next morning, Tintin is shaken to read a newspaper report about a plane crash in the Himalayas. Chang is listed among the passengers presumed dead. Refusing to accept this, Tintin becomes convinced that Chang is alive and decides to embark on a rescue mission, despite the overwhelming odds.
The Journey to Nepal
Captain Haddock, although initially sceptical, joins Tintin out of loyalty. Together, they travel to Kathmandu, Nepal, where they hire a Sherpa guide named Tharkey to lead them into the remote and treacherous Himalayan mountains near the crash site.
The journey is fraught with danger, as the group faces rugged terrain, extreme cold, and high altitudes. Tintin remains unwavering in his belief that Chang is alive, even as others express doubts. Captain Haddock, despite his typical clumsiness and grumbling, demonstrates great courage and loyalty, risking his life to support Tintin.
The Plane Crash and the Yeti’s Domain
Upon reaching the crash site, the group finds the wreckage in ruins and no sign of Chang among the bodies. However, Tintin discovers a torn piece of cloth that he recognises as part of Chang’s clothing. This discovery reinforces his belief that Chang has survived and prompts the group to venture further into the mountains.
As they continue, the group encounters signs of the legendary Yeti, a creature feared by locals. Tharkey warns them of the danger, but Tintin insists on pressing forward. Tharkey temporarily leaves the group out of concern for their safety but later has a change of heart and returns to help them.
Rescuing Chang
Tintin and Haddock face numerous hardships, including avalanches, exhaustion, and perilous climbs. At one point, Haddock nearly falls to his death but is saved by Tintin’s quick thinking. Despite these challenges, Tintin’s faith in his friend drives them forward.
Finally, Tintin discovers a cave where Chang has been sheltering. Chang explains how he survived the crash but was injured and stranded. He reveals that the Yeti, contrary to its fearsome reputation, saved his life by tending to him and providing shelter. Chang expresses gratitude for the creature’s kindness, describing it as lonely and misunderstood.
The Yeti’s Sacrifice
As Tintin, Haddock, and Chang prepare to leave the cave, the Yeti appears. It does not attack but watches them from a distance, seemingly reluctant to let Chang go. The group departs hurriedly, with Chang looking back at the creature with a mixture of gratitude and sadness.
Conclusion: Reunion and Reflection
The group returns safely to Kathmandu, where Chang is nursed back to health. Tintin’s faith and determination are vindicated, and Captain Haddock shows a softer side by expressing genuine joy at their success. The story concludes on a poignant note, with Chang reunited with Tintin and the Yeti left alone in its harsh, solitary environment—a powerful symbol of isolation and unacknowledged kindness.
Themes
Tintin in Tibet represents a departure from the series’ usual action-oriented plots. It explores themes of:
- Friendship and Loyalty: Tintin’s commitment to rescuing Chang is central to the story.
- Faith and Perseverance: Tintin’s belief in Chang’s survival inspires those around him.
- Compassion and Misunderstanding: The Yeti’s actions challenge preconceptions, revealing its humanity.
The Yeti
Tintin in Tibet seamlessly incorporates the myth of the Yeti into its narrative, presenting the legendary creature as a misunderstood and compassionate being.
The Yeti in Himalayan Mythology
The Yeti is a central figure in Himalayan folklore, often described as a large, ape-like creature inhabiting remote, snow-covered mountain ranges. For centuries, it has been both feared and revered by local communities. The name “Yeti” originates from Tibetan words meaning “rocky place bear,” and the legend is deeply rooted in spiritual beliefs, symbolising the untamed and mysterious forces of nature.
The Yeti in ‘Tintin in Tibet’
Hergé’s depiction of the Yeti subverts its traditional portrayal as a frightening monster. Instead, it is shown as a lonely, caring creature. By saving Chang, the Yeti challenges stereotypes, embodying empathy and intelligence.
‘Tharkey’ and Sherpa Tenzing
The character of Tharkey, the courageous Sherpa guide, draws parallels with Tenzing Norgay, the legendary Sherpa who, alongside Sir Edmund Hillary, became one of the first climbers to summit Mount Everest in 1953.
Tharkey: The Loyal Guide
Tharkey’s knowledge of the mountains and his bravery make him indispensable to Tintin’s journey. Initially reluctant to continue due to the dangers, he returns out of loyalty and a sense of duty, reflecting the steadfastness associated with Sherpa culture.
Explore Tintin in Tibet and More
Discover Tintin in Tibet and related treasures in our online inventory:
- Tintin in Tibet Poster: Shop here
- First UK Edition: Shop here
- The Yeti & Eric Shipton Photographs: Shop here
- Sherpa Tenzing Original Press Photograph: Shop here
- Tintin Calendar for 2025: Shop here
We’ll return in the New Year with more explorations of The Adventures of Tintin!
