Choose one question to answer.
Choose one character from The Call of the Wild and explain how the author created him or her. Share at least three elements of characterization and give examples of each for your chosen character. Your response should address each part of the question. Use details from the book to support each description.
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One possible theme of The Call of the Wild could be that only the strongest survive. Explain how this relates to Darwin’s theory of natural selection and the survival of the fittest. Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Is there one aspect with which you agree but another with which you do not?
Your answer should contain the following:
a full explanation of this theme and its connection to natural selection;
citation of supporting examples from the novel that illustrate the theme; and
your opinion and reasons.
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I will choose to answer the question about the theme of "only the strongest survive" in The Call of the Wild.
The theme of "only the strongest survive" in The Call of the Wild relates directly to Darwin's theory of natural selection and the survival of the fittest. According to Darwin's theory, organisms that are most adapted to their environment have a better chance of surviving and reproducing, passing on their advantageous traits to future generations. This theory is evident throughout the book as the main character, Buck, faces various challenges in the harsh wilderness of the Klondike.
One example of this theme is seen when Buck first arrives in the Klondike and is forced to adapt to the harsh conditions. He is initially a pampered pet, but as he is exposed to the brutalities of the wild, he learns to fend for himself. Buck's physical strength, agility, and intelligence ultimately allow him to survive and thrive in this hostile environment. The author describes Buck's transformation from a domesticated animal to a wild and ruthless creature, highlighting his natural instinct for survival and his ability to adapt to his surroundings.
Another example of the theme is seen in the hierarchy of the dog sled teams. The dogs that are strongest and most capable are given the lead positions, while the weaker dogs are relegated to the back. This demonstrates how only the fittest and strongest animals are given the opportunity to lead and excel in their roles. The author portrays these dogs as fighters who are in constant competition with one another for dominance, mirroring the concept of survival of the fittest.
Personally, I agree with the idea that only the strongest survive. It aligns with my understanding of the natural world and the idea that organisms must adapt and evolve to ensure their survival. The examples from the novel support this idea, as we see Buck's transformation and the hierarchy within the dog sled teams. However, while I agree with this concept in a natural setting, I do not believe it should be applied to human society. Human beings have the ability to empathize, cooperate, and help one another, which sets us apart from the purely instinctual survival mentality depicted in The Call of the Wild.