choose one qestion to answer. chooes on character from the call of the wild and explan how the author created hm or her. share at least three elements of characterization and give examples of each for your chosen character. your reponse should addresss each part of the qestion. use detals from the book to support each decription.
I will choose Buck, the main character from "The Call of the Wild," to explain how the author created him. I will address each part of the question and provide three elements of characterization, along with supporting examples from the book.
1. Physical description:
The author vividly describes Buck's physical appearance, which helps readers visualize his transformation throughout the story. For example, at the beginning of the book, London writes, "He was not so large, he weighed only 140 pounds, for his mother, Shep, had been a Scotch shepherd dog," highlighting Buck's size and his mixed ancestry. Later, as Buck adapts to life in the wild, his physical appearance changes: "He was masterful and knew it… His muscles had grown hard as iron, and the general effect was of an animal greater than his kind."
2. Behaviors and actions:
London portrays Buck through his actions, showing his adaptability and survival instincts. In the early chapters, Buck demonstrates his intelligence and cunning by learning to steal food from other dogs without getting caught. His quick thinking and resourcefulness are evident when he fights back against Spitz, the lead sled dog, to establish his dominance. Buck's actions throughout the book highlight his transformation from a domesticated dog to a wild, fierce creature.
3. Emotional and psychological traits:
The author reveals Buck's inner emotions and instincts, providing insight into his mental journey. London portrays Buck's growing desire for freedom and belonging to the wild, writing, "He was emerging from the wild with a taste of it still in his mouth." Buck's mental strength is depicted when he endures harsh conditions, loss, and violence throughout the narrative while still maintaining resilience and determination.
These elements of characterization combine to create a multi-dimensional character in Buck, allowing readers to witness his physical and psychological transformation. By using specific descriptions, actions, and emotional traits, London crafts a dynamic protagonist who encapsulates the theme of survival and adaptation in "The Call of the Wild."