Analysis of Jack London’s Use of Anthropomorphism in The Call of The Wild

Introduction

Anthropomorphism, the attribution of human characteristics to animals or non-human entities, has been a recurrent theme in literature, sparking intrigue and debate. Jack London's classic novel, "The Call of the Wild," provides a compelling canvas for the examination of anthropomorphism, as it delves into the emotional and intellectual world of a dog named Buck. This essay explores the pervasive presence of anthropomorphism in the novel, shedding light on how it enhances our understanding of the animal protagonist, while also raising thought-provoking questions about the blurred lines between human and animal.

Buck's Transformation and the Humanization of Animals

In "The Call of the Wild," the central character, Buck, is a domesticated dog who undergoes a profound transformation as he adapts to the rugged wilderness of the Yukon during the Klondike Gold Rush. This transformation is central to the novel's exploration of anthropomorphism. Initially, Buck is depicted as a pampered and loyal pet, living in the comfort of a California estate. However, when he is stolen and thrust into the harsh world of the North, Buck's gradual transition into a wild, more primal creature unfolds. His experiences mirror the human journey of self-discovery and adaptation in unfamiliar and challenging environments.

London skillfully employs anthropomorphism to portray Buck's emotional and intellectual evolution. Through the use of vivid descriptions and the portrayal of Buck's thoughts and feelings, readers gain access to the dog's inner world. This enables us to empathize with Buck, seeing him not merely as an animal but as a sentient being capable of complex emotions, such as fear, anger, and longing. Buck's character development mirrors human growth and resilience, emphasizing the novel's underlying theme that the wild can awaken dormant instincts and qualities in all creatures, not just humans.

The Moral and Ethical Implications of Anthropomorphism

"The Call of the Wild" raises profound moral and ethical questions about the treatment of animals and the consequences of anthropomorphism. As Buck becomes more "wild" and embraces his primal instincts, readers are forced to confront uncomfortable truths about the domestication of animals. Anthropomorphism, in this context, serves as a literary device that challenges societal norms and assumptions about the roles and treatment of animals in human society.

Through Buck's experiences and perspective, the novel highlights the cruelty inherent in the exploitation of animals for human gain. Whether it's the brutal treatment by humans or the dogfights he's forced into, Buck's suffering elicits sympathy and condemnation of the callousness with which humans often treat animals. This element of the novel serves as a powerful critique of anthropocentrism—the belief that humans are the center of the universe and superior to all other beings.

The Dual Nature of Anthropomorphism: Empathy and Estrangement

In "The Call of the Wild," anthropomorphism serves a dual purpose: it fosters empathy for the animal characters while also underscoring the fundamental differences between humans and animals. While readers are drawn into Buck's world and emotions, they are simultaneously reminded of the essential divide between human and non-human experiences. This duality challenges readers to contemplate the limits of our understanding and connection with animals.

As readers, we are invited to empathize with Buck's struggles and triumphs. His journey mirrors the human experience of self-discovery, resilience, and survival. However, London artfully maintains the boundaries of anthropomorphism by reminding us that Buck's actions and motivations are fundamentally driven by instinct and survival. He does not possess human reasoning or consciousness. This complex interplay between empathy and estrangement pushes us to reflect on the extent to which we can truly understand and relate to non-human creatures.

Conclusion

In "The Call of the Wild," Jack London skillfully employs anthropomorphism to weave a captivating narrative that blurs the lines between human and animal experiences. Through the transformation of the novel's central character, Buck, readers are immersed in a world where emotions, instincts, and adaptability take center stage. This anthropomorphic lens allows us to empathize with Buck's journey while also challenging us to confront the moral and ethical implications of our treatment of animals.

The novel's exploration of anthropomorphism serves as a poignant reminder of the power of literature to bridge the gap between human and animal experiences. It calls into question our assumptions about the sentient and emotional lives of animals and challenges us to reevaluate our relationship with the natural world. "The Call of the Wild" is not merely a tale of adventure; it is a thought-provoking exploration of the complex interplay between humans and animals, inviting us to reconsider our place in the intricate web of life on this planet. Through the lens of anthropomorphism, we gain insight into the shared vulnerabilities and strengths of all living beings, ultimately deepening our appreciation for the wild spirit that resides within us and the natural world.

Works Cited

1. eNotes Editorial, 2 May 2010, https://www.enotes.com/homework-help/call-wild-author-jack- london-shows-buck-have-human-164093. Accessed 19 Nov. 2019.
2. Literary Devices, 2019, literarydevices.net/anthropomorphism/. Accessed 8 Nov. 2019.
3. London, Jack, 1876-1916. The Call of the Wild. New York: Macmillan, 1963.
4. 'The Call of the Wild Study Guide.' The Glencoe Literature Library, Glencoe McGraw-Hill, www.glencoe.com/sec/literature/litlibrary/pdf/call_of_the_wild.pdf.