what is the significance of jack london's portrayal of the man and the dog in " to build a fire" and how does it relate to naturalism?
This site will probably help you with this question.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naturalism_(literature)
http://www.gradesaver.com/classicnotes/titles/build/
http://www.bookrags.com/studyguide-tobuildfire/
discuss how the methaphor of death operate in james joyce's " the dead" and/or Chinua Achebe's "dead men's path" with specific reference to culture identity
We will be more than happy to give you suggestions after you have done some thinking and writing on one of those topics. Here are a couple of sites where you might get ideas.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Dead_%28short_story%29
http://www.enotes.com/dead/
http://www.emcp.com/product_catalog/school/litLink/Grade10/U10-02deadmen/selection.php
The significance of Jack London's portrayal of the man and the dog in "To Build a Fire" lies in its connection to the literary movement known as naturalism. Naturalism emerged as a literary movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, focusing on the harsh realities and deterministic nature of human existence.
In the story, the man represents the typical naturalistic protagonist who is pit against the forces of nature. He embodies the hubris and arrogance of humanity, believing that he can conquer the brutal cold of the Yukon without any real regard for the dangers involved. The man's lack of respect for nature and his overconfidence highlight the deterministic aspect of naturalism, as he ultimately falls victim to the unforgiving wilderness.
On the other hand, the dog symbolizes the instinctual and animalistic nature present in all living beings. The dog understands and respects the natural world, relying on its innate survival instincts to navigate through the harsh conditions. Unlike the man, who relies solely on intellect and fails to appreciate the significance of the instinctual, the dog serves as a contrast that emphasizes the consequences of human arrogance and ignorance.
Overall, London's portrayal of the man and the dog highlights the power of nature to shape and control human lives. It demonstrates the naturalistic belief that humans are subject to the same deterministic forces as animals, often leading to tragic outcomes.
To fully grasp the significance of the portrayal and its relation to naturalism, it is essential to read and analyze the story itself. Pay close attention to the man's mindset and actions, as well as the role of the dog, and how they interact with the harshness of the environment. Look for elements that depict the indifference of nature, the absence of free will, and the consequences of human arrogance. By engaging with the text, you can more effectively analyze the portrayal and its connection to naturalism.