Mary Allen
Introduction: Buck, the protagonist
In Jack London’s classic novel, "The Call of the Wild," the protagonist is a dog named Buck. The story follows Buck’s journey from a pampered pet to a fierce, wild animal in the harsh wilderness of the Klondike Gold Rush. Buck’s transformation is a reflection of London’s belief in the innate wildness of all creatures, including humans.
The setting: Klondike Gold Rush
The novel is set during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 19th century, a time when thousands of prospectors traveled to the Yukon region of Canada in search of riches. The harsh conditions and rugged terrain of the wilderness make survival a constant struggle, and it is in this environment that Buck must learn to adapt and survive.
Buck’s origin story
Buck is a large, powerful dog who is stolen from his comfortable life in California and sold into the brutal world of the Klondike Gold Rush. He is a mixed breed, with some St. Bernard and Scotch shepherd in his lineage. Despite his size and strength, Buck is initially naive and unprepared for the harsh realities of life in the North.
Buck’s early life and training
Before he is sold into slavery, Buck lives a life of luxury as a pet in a wealthy California home. However, when he is taken to the North, he quickly learns that his size and strength are his only assets. He is trained to be a sled dog, and he quickly learns the importance of obedience, endurance, and survival in the wild.
Buck’s journey to the North
Buck’s journey to the North is a long and arduous one. He is stolen from his comfortable life and shipped by train and boat to the Yukon region of Canada. Along the way, he experiences both kindness and cruelty from humans, and he learns to be wary of both.
Buck’s introduction to the sled team
Buck is initially introduced to the sled team as a newcomer, and he must prove his worth to the other dogs. He is strong and capable, but he must also learn the rules of the pack and how to work together with the other dogs. Over time, he becomes a respected member of the team and a valuable asset to his human masters.
Buck’s struggles and triumphs on the trail
Buck faces many challenges on the trail, including harsh weather, difficult terrain, and dangerous encounters with wild animals. However, he also experiences moments of triumph, such as when he leads the sled team through a treacherous mountain pass or when he saves his human master from a pack of wolves.
Buck’s encounters with other animals
Buck encounters a variety of other animals on his journey, including wolves, bears, and other dogs. These encounters are often dangerous and violent, and Buck must rely on his instincts and training to survive.
Buck’s transformation into a wild beast
As Buck spends more time in the wilderness, he becomes increasingly wild and feral. He begins to embrace his primal instincts and becomes a fierce, formidable animal. This transformation is a reflection of London’s belief in the innate wildness of all creatures, and it is a key theme in the novel.
Buck’s eventual return to civilization
Despite his transformation, Buck eventually returns to civilization and is reunited with his human master. However, he is forever changed by his experiences in the wilderness, and he is no longer the docile pet he once was.
The breed of dog Buck is revealed
Although Buck’s breed is not explicitly stated in the novel, it is widely believed that he is a mix of St. Bernard and Scotch shepherd. This combination gives him the size, strength, and endurance necessary to survive in the harsh conditions of the North.
Conclusion: Buck’s legacy in literature
"The Call of the Wild" is a timeless classic that has captivated readers for over a century. Buck’s transformation from a domesticated pet to a wild, fierce animal is a powerful metaphor for the human struggle to find meaning and purpose in a world that is often harsh and unforgiving. Buck’s legacy in literature is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the human need for connection and understanding.