How Did Jack London Use Survival Techniques In The Call Of The Wild

Charles Darwin introduced the world to the theory of Natural Selection, also known as “Survival of the Fittest”, in 1856. The theory claims that organisms with the drive to fight for their lives are more likely to survive compared to other organisms who do not put up a fight. Jack London's Call of the Wild depicts Buck undergoing and overcoming a series of brutal challenges in the harsh wilderness of Canada during the Klondike Gold Rush, ultimately allowing for him to become a representation of Darwin's concept of the “survival of the fittest”. London employs a harsh tone that stresses the violence experienced by the dogs throughout the novel, emphasizing the dog's struggle to stay alive. In addition to this, London presents an analogy of Buck's previous life with Judge Miller and his life as a sled-dog, showcasing Buck's complete change. Also, the shortcomings of characters in the novel highlights the laws of nature.

For instance, Curly's friendly nature causes her death, introducing the readers to the law of club and fang. London writes, “There was no warning, only a leap in like a flash, a metallic clip of teeth, a leap out equally swift, and Curly's face was ripped open from eye to jaw.” Here, London employs brutal imagery to showcase the ferociousness of the huskies. Curly and Buck experience different fates despite having virtually the same beginning. The difference lies in the fact that Curly, as a “good-natured Newfoundland”, could not adapt to her surroundings as well as Buck