Symbolism
This object represents cruelty and abuse of power in Chapter 5.
What is the whip?
Buck collapses because the dogs are suffering from this.
What is exhaustion and starvation?
This character represents selfishness and materialism.
Who is Mercedes ?
This theme shows that only the strongest and smartest survive.
What is survival of the fittest?
What is a synonym for perambulating?
What is walking? Other similar answers are acceptable.
This symbol shows humans ignoring nature’s warnings and danger.
What is the thin river ice?
This happens when Buck refuses to pull the sled.
What is Hal beats Buck with a club/whip?
This character reads books but lacks real survival skills.
Who is Charles?
This theme explains why Hal, Charles, and Mercedes fail.
What is ignorance vs. experience?
These protect Buck’s feet from ice and cold.
What are moccasins?
Buck refusing to pull the sled symbolizes this trait.
What is wisdom / instinct / survival instinct?
This character saves Buck’s life by cutting him free.
Who is John Thornton?
This character believes confidence matters more than experience.
Who is Hal?
This theme is shown when Buck trusts instinct over human commands.
What is instinct over civilization?
This word describes dogs going violently insane.
What is madness?
This item symbolizes selfishness and poor judgment because it slows the dogs down.
What is the overloaded sled (supplies)?
This happens to Hal, Charles, and Mercedes at the end of the chapter.
What is they fall through the ice and die?
This character represents compassion and respect for nature.
Who is John Thornton?
This theme contrasts cruel leadership with compassionate leadership.
What is power vs. responsibility?
This term describes Buck’s role once he proves himself worthy.
What is leader / lead dog?
Final Jeopardy Question:
Choose ONE symbol from Chapter 5 and explain how it connects to the theme of survival.
Examples may include the whip, ice, sled, or Buck refusing to pull — all showing survival depends on wisdom and respect for nature.