Plot
What historic event leads to Buck being taken from his home?
The Klondike Gold Rush
Who is the main character in "The Call of the Wild"?
Buck
Where is Buck from at the beginning of the story?
Santa Clara Valley, California.
What does "The law of club and fang" refer to?
It refers to the brutal reality of survival in the cruel wild. It is Buck's motto to stay alive
What breed of dog is Buck?
Saint Bernard Scotch Collie mix
How does Buck first react to his new environment in the wilderness?
He is confused and scared but quickly learns to adapt.
Name one character who mistreats Buck.
Manuel, Spitz, Man in the Red Sweater
What is the major setting for Chapters 1 and 2?
Alaska, or The Yukon
What does "malignant" mean?
Evil in nature
In what year does the story take place?
In the 1890s
What major challenge does Buck face in Chapter 2?
Learning to pull a sled and survive with the other dogs.
How does Joe differ from other characters Buck encounters?
Joe is friendly and tries to please others
How does the setting impact Buck's journey?
The wilderness tests Buck's instincts and adaptability, forcing him to become more savage.
What is an "aristocrat"?
A person in the upper class, usually from a wealthy family
What motivated the men to travel to the Yukon?
To search for gold and wealth
How does Buck’s understanding of leadership change throughout the first two chapters?
Buck learns that leadership is not just about strength, but also intelligence and cunning.
What is the relationship between Buck and the other dogs in the sled team?
The experienced dogs keep Buck in line and lead by example.
Describe the climate in the setting of "The Call of the Wild."
Cold, snowy, icy, dark, difficult to survive in
What is an example of a "calamity"?
*answers very* (ex. hurricane, tornado, earthquake)
What is the significance of the title "The Call of the Wild"?
It represents Buck's growing instinct to return to his primal, wolf-like roots and embrace the wild.
Describe the significance of Buck's transformation in Chapters 1 and 2.
Buck evolves from a domesticated pet to a strong creature of the wild
Describe the character of Spitz and his role in the story.
Spitz is the lead dog who is aggressive and leads the dog sled team
What role does the natural environment play in Buck's transformation?
The environment challenges Buck, teaching him survival skills and awakening his instincts.
Where was Buck's "demesne"?
Judge Miller's property in California
What kinds of stories and topics is Jack London known for writing?
Survival, the wilderness, nature, animals