One character from The Call of the Wild that stands out is Buck, the main protagonist of the story. The author, Jack London, skillfully creates Buck by employing three key elements of characterization: physical description, actions and behaviors, and inner thoughts and emotions.
Firstly, London provides a vivid physical description of Buck that helps the reader visualize him. Buck is described as a powerful and sturdy dog, weighing about a hundred and forty pounds. He has a thick, furry coat, a mixture of Saint Bernard and Scotch Shepherd. London's description conveys Buck's physical strength and resilience, illustrating his suitability for surviving the harsh environments he encounters throughout the novel.
Secondly, through Buck's actions and behaviors, London showcases his transformation and adaptation to the harsh realities of his new life. Initially a pampered pet, Buck is thrust into a world of brutality and survival when he is sold into sled dog service in the Klondike. As Buck endures abuse, cruelty, and brutal training methods, he learns to fight for his survival and assert his dominance. He becomes cunning, resourceful, and develops a deep instinct to adapt and overcome any challenge. For example, when faced with the cruel clubbing of the man in the red sweater, Buck learns to stop fighting and channel his energy into observing, comprehending, and outwitting his adversaries.
Lastly, London delves into Buck's inner thoughts and emotions, which lends depth and emotional complexity to his character. Buck experiences a profound inner conflict throughout the novel, torn between his loyalty to man and his growing instincts for the wild. As Buck spends more time in the wild and becomes more in tune with his primitive instincts, he starts to experience a longing for freedom and a primal connection to the wilderness. Although he remains fiercely loyal to those who treat him well, such as John Thornton, Buck's desires increasingly align with his innate, untamed nature. For instance, when Buck becomes the leader of a wolf pack, he feels a sense of fulfillment and belonging, even though this conflicts with his devotion to his human companions.
In conclusion, Jack London masterfully creates the character of Buck in The Call of the Wild. Through a combination of physical description, actions and behaviors, and inner thoughts and emotions, London portrays Buck as a compelling and dynamic protagonist. His physical strength, adaptability, and emotional conflict solidify his status as a central figure in the narrative, capturing the reader's attention and empathy throughout the story.
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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