Why and how is the setting of this novel White Fang important to the plot?
The setting of a novel, such as White Fang by Jack London, is crucial to the development of the plot, as it helps to shape the story and influence the characters' experiences and actions. To understand the importance of the setting in White Fang, we need to analyze the novel's specific setting and its impact on the plot.
In White Fang, the story takes place in the harsh and unforgiving wilderness of the Yukon Territory during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 19th century. This remote and rugged environment plays a significant role in the plot for several reasons:
1. Survival and Instinct: The setting of the wilderness highlights the theme of survival and instinct. White Fang, the protagonist, is a wolf-dog hybrid who must adapt to survive in this hostile environment. The harsh climate, lack of resources, and predatory nature of the wild surroundings force White Fang to rely on his natural instincts in order to navigate and endure.
2. Laws of Nature: The setting emphasizes the laws of nature and the struggle for dominance. White Fang's experiences in the wild, with various encounters including other animals and humans, portray the harsh reality of this environment and the constant battles for survival. The setting highlights the instinctual, primal behavior that drives the characters' interactions and actions throughout the novel.
3. Influence on Characters: The setting has a profound impact on the characters in the story. The harsh nature of the Yukon Territory shapes the personalities and behaviors of both human and animal characters. For humans, it tests their resilience, resourcefulness, and ability to adapt. For wolves and dogs, it determines their pack dynamics, hierarchy, and survival instincts. The environment molds the characters and helps to create a rich and dynamic narrative.
To fully grasp the importance of the setting in White Fang, readers can explore the novel's descriptions of the wilderness, the portrayal of its challenges and beauty, and how the characters' experiences and decisions are influenced by their surroundings. This analysis allows readers to appreciate the significance of the setting in shaping the plot, themes, and character development of the novel.