The Call of the Wild:
One of the themes in Jack London's book, "The Call of the Wild" is power. Discuss Buck's use of power throughout the book.
http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/call/themes.html
Look for some ideas in here.
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These sites may help you.
http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/call/
http://www.gradesaver.com/call-of-the-wild/
PS - You need to remember that power is not just physical strength. There are other powers, too. Be sure you take those into account.
To discuss Buck's use of power throughout "The Call of the Wild," we need to analyze the specific instances where Buck demonstrates power and how it evolves throughout the story.
1. Physical Power: At the beginning of the novel, Buck possesses physical power as a St. Bernard and Scotch Collie mix. Initially, this power allows him to dominate other dogs and assert dominance in his surroundings, such as when he fights against Spitz, the lead sled dog. Buck's physical power is a vital element in his survival and adaptation to the harsh environments he encounters.
2. Adaptation and Survival: As the story progresses, Buck's power evolves to include adaptation and survival skills. He learns from other experienced sled dogs and observes their behavior to understand how to survive in the wilderness. This new power allows him to master skills like pulling sleds, finding food, and knowing when to rest. By adapting to his new surroundings and utilizing his natural instincts, Buck shows his power over his environment.
3. Leadership: Buck's physical strength, adaptability, and intelligence grant him the ability to establish leadership over the other sled dogs. He gains the respect and loyalty of the pack, leading them with his superior qualities. Buck's leadership is instrumental when he becomes the lead sled dog, guiding the team through treacherous terrain and dangerous situations. His power as a leader is built on trust, resilience, and the protection he provides to the others.
4. Connection with Nature: As Buck becomes more deeply influenced by his primal instincts, he connects with his ancestral power and learns to heed the "call of the wild." This connection enables him to tap into a deeper power that transcends physical dominance alone. He becomes attuned to nature, its rhythms, and its forces, which aids him in surviving and thriving in the wild.
Throughout the book, Buck's use of power transitions from his initial physical dominance to a more profound understanding of his place in the natural world. His power evolves to encompass adaptation, survival, leadership, and an instinctual connection with the wild, all of which contribute to his growth as a character.