Call of the Wild Alternative Portfolio
Instructions:
-Choose one of the characters in the story to analyze.
-Choose three traits that the character shows through the story
-Explain HOW you know these are his/her traits and WHY they are significant
Requirements:
2 pages, typed, double -spaced (use this guide on how to double-space and set up your paper)
Need 3 character traits
Use of transition words
Use correct grammar, punctuation, capitalization, spelling, and sentence structure.
Title: Analysis of Buck in "Call of the Wild"
Introduction:
In Jack London's "Call of the Wild," the main character, Buck, undergoes an extraordinary transformation as he adapts to the harsh realities of the wilderness. Throughout the story, Buck exhibits various traits that highlight his resilience, adaptability, and loyalty. This essay aims to analyze Buck's character by exploring these three key traits and the significance they hold in the narrative.
Body:
Trait 1: Resilience:
Buck's first trait that becomes evident in the story is his resilience. From the beginning, Buck endures the difficult journey from his comfortable home in Santa Clara Valley to the rugged landscapes of Alaska. Despite experiencing exhaustion, hunger, and mistreatment, Buck remains determined and refuses to succumb to despair. This resilience is evident when he encounters the hardships of his new life and learns to adapt in order to survive. For instance, when faced with physical abuse from his first master, Buck bears the pain and learns restraint, demonstrating his ability to endure and persevere through adversity.
Trait 2: Adaptability:
Buck's second trait, adaptability, arises as a direct consequence of his resilience. As a domesticated dog suddenly thrust into the wild, Buck must quickly adapt to the laws of nature. He learns to rely on his instincts and relinquish the comforts of his former life. For example, Buck adapts to the harsh weather conditions by growing a thicker coat, altering his body to withstand the biting cold. Moreover, he learns to fight other dogs and predators, adapting his strength and agility to survive in the wild. This adaptability is crucial for Buck's survival as he navigates the brutal realities of the Yukon.
Trait 3: Loyalty:
Throughout the story, Buck consistently displays unwavering loyalty. Initially, he is loyal to Judge Miller, his original owner back in Santa Clara Valley. Even after being subjected to harsh conditions and cruelty, Buck remains faithful to his core values, proving his loyalty to those who deserve it. He forms a deep attachment to John Thornton, a kind and caring master who treats him with love and respect. Buck's loyalty is most evident in the climactic scene where he saves Thornton from drowning in a river. This act of loyalty reflects his unwavering devotion and serves as a testament to his true character.
Conclusion:
In "Call of the Wild," Buck's character is shaped by his resilience, adaptability, and loyalty. These three traits work in harmony to highlight his remarkable transformation from a domesticated dog to a formidable force in the wilderness. Buck's resilience allows him to endure hardships, his adaptability equips him with the necessary skills to survive, and his loyalty defines his relationships with others. By showcasing these traits, London presents Buck as a symbol of the indomitable spirit that resides within each individual, urging readers to embrace their own inner resilience, adaptability, and loyalty in the face of adversity.