Question

Which statement best explains why a reader should know about the concept of "survival of the fittest" when reading The Call of the Wild? Jack London's book is an adaptation of other books at the time. This concept is mentioned throughout the book. The idea is part of the cultural context for London's book. The concept provides a good counter-point to London's writing.

Answer 1

Answer:

C. The idea is part of the cultural context for London's book.

Explanation:

"The Call of the Wild" has as its theme the idea of "survival of the fittest". According to this premise, only those who are strong and capable of adapting to new circumstances will survive. That idea was very much in vogue when London's book was published, in 1903. It has roots in Darwin's Theory of Evolution as well as Nietzsche's conception of masters and slaves. Buck, the dog and main character of the story, is stolen from his comfortable life in a family house and sold to be a sled-dog. He already had a predisposition for being a leader. He is also a strong dog whose skills and instincts quickly surface as he needs them. Buck learns the new rules of his changed life and climbs up the difficult ladder mastery. He not only survives, but he becomes the best he can be.

Answer 2

Answer:

C. The idea is part of the cultural context for London's book.