Buck did not cry out. He did not check himself, but drove in upon Spitz, shoulder to shoulder, so hard that he missed the throat. They rolled over and over in the powdery snow. Spitz gained his feet almost as though he had not been overthrown, slashing Buck down the shoulder and leaping clear. Twice his teeth clipped together, like the steel jaws of a trap, as he backed away for better footing, with lean and lifting lips that writhed and snarled.

Question

—The Call of the Wild,
Jack London

Read this passage. Explain what the conflict shows about Buck and Spitz.

Answer 1

The conflict between Buck and Spitz in this passage from "The Call of the Wild" illustrates several key aspects of both characters and their evolving dynamics.

1. Struggle for Dominance: The conflict highlights the battle for supremacy between Buck and Spitz. Buck is showing his strength and determination as he charges at Spitz shoulder to shoulder, demonstrating his willingness to fight for his place and assert his dominance in the pack. This struggle for leadership is a central theme in the novel, reflecting the primal instincts that drive the characters.

2. Adaptability vs. Experience: Buck's attempt to overthrow Spitz signifies his growth and adaptability. Having come from domesticated life, Buck is evolving into a stronger and more instinctual creature capable of survival in the wild. In contrast, Spitz represents the established order—an experienced sled dog who is skilled in combat and survival. This illustrates the tension between the new and the old, as Buck begins to challenge Spitz’s authority.

3. Instinct and Survival: The description of the physical confrontation, with Buck and Spitz grappling in the snow, emphasizes the rawness of animal instinct and the harsh realities of life in the wild. Buck's refusal to cry out demonstrates his courage and resilience, indicating his transformation from a domesticated dog to a creature driven by primal instincts. Spitz’s tactics, such as slashing and quick movements, highlight his experience and skill in asserting power.

4. Emergence of Leadership: This conflict also foreshadows Buck's eventual rise to leadership. His willingness to engage with Spitz and the intensity of their struggle reveal that Buck is not only capable but also ready to take on the challenges of leadership. It signifies a turning point in Buck's journey, moving away from his previous life and embracing his identity in the wilderness.

Overall, the conflict showcases the themes of dominance, evolution, instinct, and survival, highlighting the transformative journey of Buck as he navigates the challenges posed by Spitz and the environment.