The Call of the Wild: Exploring Jack London's Novel

Question:

What literary concept is exemplified by the statement "In vague ways he remembered back to the youth of the breed" in Jack London's The Call of the Wild?

A. Survival of the fittest

B. The will to power

C. Natural selection

D. The racial unconscious

Answer:

The statement by Jack London is an example of the concept of the racial unconscious, which suggests that Buck has inherited ancestral memories and instincts.

The statement "In vague ways he remembered back to the youth of the breed" by Jack London in The Call of the Wild is an example of the concept of the racial unconscious. The phrase suggests that the main character of the novel, Buck, has inherited certain memories and instincts from his ancestors. This idea of inherited ancestral knowledge is a key element of the theory of the racial unconscious, which was developed by psychologist Carl Jung.

Exploring the depths of Jack London's novel, The Call of the Wild, provides readers with a fascinating journey into the inner workings of the canine protagonist, Buck. The concept of the racial unconscious adds a layer of complexity to Buck's character, highlighting the deep-rooted instincts and memories that shape his actions throughout the novel.

By delving into the themes of ancestry and inherited knowledge, readers can gain a deeper understanding of Buck's transformation and evolution as he navigates the harsh realities of the wilderness. London's exploration of the racial unconscious serves as a testament to the power of storytelling in illuminating the complexities of human and animal behavior.