Question

One possible theme of “The Call of the Wild” could be that only the strongest survive. Explain how this relates to Darwin’s theory of natural selection. Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Is there one aspect with which you agree but another with which you do not?
Your answer should contain the following:

- a full explanation of this theme and its connection to natural selection

- citation of supporting examples from the novel that illustrate the theme

- your opinion and reasons

Answer 1

Charles Darwin's natural selection theory holds that "only the fittest species will survive the competition for scarce resources". At a time when Darwinism dominated evolutionary theory, Jack London lets it reflect as a major theme in his "The call of the Wild".  

The link between both pieces of writing is seen through the journey of transformation followed by the main character Buck, a St. Bernard dog, from being a domesticated pet, past his getting trafficked as a sled dog, and into becoming the fiercest pack leader.

Mid chapter III in the book, Buck finally opposes the original pack leader, Spitz, to death as London narrates "It was inevitable that the clash for leadership should come. Buck  wanted it. He wanted it because it was his nature". Spitz finally dead, Buck  stands "the successful  champion, the dominant primordial beast who had made his kill and found it good."

Current evolutionary theory counters Darwin's stating that what determines survival is not superiority but rather the ability to adapt to surrounding conditions or survive dramatic change in the environment.  

In any case, I believe Buck is a great example of the drive for adaptation in a living creature, which doesn't necessarily imply progress but retrogression under unfortunate enough circumstances.