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 answer the question about The Call of the Wild and the theme of only the strongest survive.
The theme of only the strongest survive is closely related to Darwin's theory of natural selection and the survival of the fittest. According to Darwin, individuals that possess advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, thus passing on those traits to the next generation. This concept is seen clearly in The Call of the Wild, where Buck, the main character, undergoes a transformation and learns to adapt and survive in the harsh wilderness.
Throughout the novel, Buck exhibits traits that make him the strongest and most resilient dog in the wild. One element of characterization that the author uses to create Buck is his physical strength. Buck is described as a powerful and muscular dog, capable of enduring arduous tasks. For example, when Buck is forced into sled-pulling, he quickly learns to become the lead dog and outperforms the other dogs through his sheer physical strength.
Another element of characterization is Buck's intelligence and adaptability. As he is thrown into the wild, Buck quickly learns the laws of the new environment and adapts his behavior accordingly. He learns to be efficient in hunting, securing food, and avoiding danger. For instance, Buck observes other animals in the wild and adopts their techniques, such as stealing the fish from the water instead of diving for them like the other dogs.
Lastly, Buck possesses a fierce and dominant personality, allowing him to establish himself as the alpha dog and gain control over the pack. This is illustrated when Buck fights and defeats the current alpha dog, Spitz, asserting his dominance. Buck's ability to assert his leadership is crucial for his survival and the survival of the pack.
These elements of characterization demonstrate how the author portrays Buck as the embodiment of the theme that only the strongest survive. Buck's physical strength, intelligence, adaptability, and dominance all contribute to his ability to survive and thrive in the wild.
Personally, I agree with the idea that only the strongest survive, to an extent. The concept of natural selection and the survival of the fittest is evident in the natural world. Organisms that possess advantageous traits have a higher chance of survival and passing on their genes. However, I also believe that the idea of the strongest may differ depending on the environment. Different traits may be favored in different ecosystems, and survival can be influenced by factors beyond physical strength alone. Therefore, while I agree with the underlying principle of the theme, I believe that there are complexities and nuances to consider.