The Reflection on the Conflict Between the Civilized and the Uncivilized

What is the central theme in "Call of the Wild"?

How does the conflict between the civilized and the uncivilized manifest in the novel?

The Central Theme in "Call of the Wild"

The central theme in "Call of the Wild" revolves around the conflict between the civilized world and the wild, uncivilized nature. Throughout the novel, this theme is portrayed through the journey of the protagonist, Buck, a domestic dog who is forced to adapt to the harsh realities of the wild.

In Jack London's "Call of the Wild," the conflict between the civilized and the uncivilized is a prevalent theme that underscores the entire narrative. As Buck is taken from his comfortable domestic life and thrown into the wilds of the Yukon during the Klondike Gold Rush, he is forced to confront his primal instincts and adapt to the savage laws of nature. This juxtaposition between the civilization of the city and the untamed wilderness highlights the inherent struggle between order and chaos, control and freedom.

Buck's transformation from a pampered pet to a fierce and independent leader of a wolf pack reflects the internal conflict he faces in reconciling his domestic upbringing with his intrinsic wild nature. The novel delves into the idea that beneath the veneer of civilization lies a primal essence that connects all creatures to their origins in the natural world.

Through Buck's journey of self-discovery and adaptation to the harsh realities of the wild, London explores the themes of survival, instinct, and the clash between civilization and nature. Buck's experiences serve as a metaphor for the eternal struggle between the constraints of society and the untamed freedom of the wild, inviting readers to reflect on their own connection to the primal forces that shape the human experience.