The Call of the Wild

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What kind of dog is Buck?

He is a mix of a St. Bernard and Scotch Shepherd.

What is unusual about the narration of this story?

It is told from the point of view of a dog, Buck.

Name another book that has similar narration.

A Dog's Purpose.

Explain why Buck is called the 'undisputed master' of Judge Miller's place.

He takes care of the kids. Signup and view all the answers

What is the setting of the novel? How does the gold rush affect the setting?

Started in California and now takes place in Alaska. They need dogs for transportation. Signup and view all the answers

Explain why Manual is referred to as an 'undesirable acquaintance'.

He doesn't treat him as a pet, but as a source of transportation. Signup and view all the answers

What caused Manual's downfall?

His downfall is caused by his greed and his gambling addiction. Signup and view all the answers

What happened to Buck when he was put into the stranger's hands?

He gets beaten. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how Buck knew he was on a train.

He had been on a train before with Judge. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the fight between Buck and the kidnapper.

He hit him with a club. Signup and view all the answers

What is denied Buck during the next two days? What is he determined to do?

He is denied food and water. He is determined to not have the rope around his neck. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the interaction between Buck and the man in the red sweater. Where is he now?

He hits Buck, then he is nice to him. He is in Seattle. Signup and view all the answers

What is primitive law?

Primitive law is your will to survive. Signup and view all the answers

Who are Buck's new owners? Where was he brought?

His owners are François and Perrault. He was taken to Narwal. Signup and view all the answers

Who was sold with Buck, and what other dogs did he meet?

Curly was sold with Buck. He met Spitz and Dave along the way. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the change that is transforming Buck.

He has to do things on his own. Signup and view all the answers

What is the conflict of the novel?

Buck is taken to a place that he is unfamiliar with. Signup and view all the answers

What new experience does the chapter end with?

He experienced snow. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Character Overview

Buck is a mix of St. Bernard and Scotch Shepherd, showcasing a strong build and adaptability.
Known as the "undisputed master" of Judge Miller's estate, Buck cares for the children, highlighting his protective nature.

Narrative Style

Told from Buck's perspective, the narrative provides a unique insight into canine experiences and emotions.

Setting

The story begins in California, shifting to Alaska during the gold rush, which demands the use of sled dogs for transportation.
The gold rush amplifies the need for dogs, fundamentally impacting Buck's life and journey.

Conflict and Challenges

Buck's initial encounter with Manual, who sees him merely as a means of transportation, reveals the harsh realities of his new life.
Manual's downfall results from his greed and gambling, illustrating the consequences of vice.

Kidnapping and Hardship

Buck faces brutality when he is taken by a stranger, marked by beatings and stripped of basic needs such as food and water.
His determination to avoid the leash symbolizes a struggle for freedom and autonomy in a cruel environment.

Transformation

The man in the red sweater treats Buck with alternating aggression and kindness, affecting Buck’s understanding of dominance and submission.
Buck's new owners are François and Perrault, who represent a shift towards a more structured life as he learns to adapt.

Relationships with Other Dogs

Buck befriends Curly, who is sold alongside him, and meets Spitz and Dave, setting the stage for future interactions and conflicts among the sled dogs.
The transformation Buck undergoes emphasizes the shift from domestication to survival instincts as he learns to fend for himself.

Key Themes

Primitive law, defined as the inherent will to survive, becomes a central theme as Buck encounters the brutal realities of nature and competition.
The novel culminates with Buck's first experience of snow, symbolizing new challenges and the harshness of his evolving world.

Overall Conflict

The primary conflict revolves around Buck's transformation and adaptation to a harsh, unforgiving environment where the laws of nature prevail over human compassion.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Test your knowledge of Chapter 1 of 'The Call of the Wild'. This quiz focuses on key concepts, characters, and narrative style as experienced through Buck's perspective. Perfect for students looking to reinforce their understanding of this classic novel.