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The Call of the Wild Facts & Worksheets

"The Call of the Wild" is a novel written by American author Jack London. It was first published in 1903 and is set during the Klondike Gold Rush, a period of intense migration to the Yukon Territory in north-western Canada in the late 19th century.

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“The Call of the Wild” is a novel written by American author Jack London. It was first published in 1903 and is set during the Klondike Gold Rush, a period of intense migration to the Yukon Territory in north-western Canada in the late 19th century.

See the fact file below for more information about The Call of the Wild, or you can download our 23-page The Call of the Wild worksheet pack to utilize within the classroom or home environment.

Key Facts & Information

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

  • Jack London’s life, marked by early hardship and adventure, began on January 12, 1876, in San Francisco, California. 
  • Growing up in poverty, he sought employment in various roles, including as a sailor and oyster pirate, to support his family. 
  • Despite a lack of formal education, London was a self-taught individual with a voracious appetite for reading. In 1897, his thirst for adventure led him to join the Klondike Gold Rush in Canada. This experience not only fueled his imagination but also provided the material for some of his most famous works.
  • London’s breakthrough as a writer came with the short story “To the Man on the Trail” (1899), drawing from his Klondike experiences. 
  • The ensuing years saw the publication of iconic novels like “The Call of the Wild” (1903) and “White Fang” (1906), both exploring the primal instincts and survival challenges faced by animals in the wild. 
  • London was not only a storyteller but also a voice for social justice, advocating for socialist ideals. 
  • His novel “The Iron Heel” (1908) delved into dystopian themes, reflecting his concerns about the impact of industrialization on society. In later life, London ventured into ranching on a property in California’s Sonoma Valley. 
  • However, his life was cut short, and he passed away on November 22, 1916, at the age of 40, due to a combination of kidney failure and various illnesses. 
  • Jack London’s legacy endures through his impactful literature, characterized by themes of adventure, social consciousness, and a deep exploration of human nature in the face of challenging environments.
  • Inspiration for the Story: Jack London’s inspiration for “The Call of the Wild” stemmed from his experiences during the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 19th century.
  • The harsh and unforgiving conditions of the Yukon wilderness, where he ventured in search of gold, deeply impacted him. 
  • Observing the primal struggles for survival, witnessing the bond between domesticated dogs and their wild instincts, and confronting the elemental forces of nature all found resonance in London’s imagination. 
  • These experiences provided the raw material for the transformational journey of Buck, the domesticated dog turned sled dog, and became the driving force behind the novel’s exploration of the call of the wild that resides within all creatures.

THE CALL OF THE WILD – SUMMARY

  • The Call of the Wild” follows the journey of Buck, a domesticated dog in California, who is stolen and sold into the harsh life of an Alaskan sled dog during the Klondike Gold Rush. 
  • Buck undergoes a profound transformation as he adapts to the brutal conditions of the wild. 
  • He faces cruelty, learns to trust his instincts, and gradually taps into his primal nature. 
  • Buck rises to a leadership position among the sled dogs, embracing the call of the wild that echoes in his soul.
  • The narrative explores the dichotomy between civilization and nature, portraying the innate instincts that lie dormant within domesticated animals and humans.
  • As Buck faces the challenges of the wilderness, he encounters a variety of characters, both human and animal, each leaving a mark on his journey. 
  • The bond between man and dog, as well as the brutality of survival, are central themes. Ultimately, Buck finds his place in the wild, answering the call that draws him away from the comforts of domesticity.
  • The novel is a powerful tale of adventure, survival, and the primal forces that shape living beings. Jack London’s vivid descriptions of the Yukon landscape and his exploration of the psychological and physical challenges faced by Buck make “The Call of the Wild” a timeless classic that resonates with readers, capturing the essence of the wild spirit within us all.

THE CALL OF THE WILD – CHARACTERS

  • Buck: The central character is a large and powerful St. Bernard-Scotch Collie mix. Buck starts as a domesticated dog in California but is stolen and sold into the brutal life of an Alaskan sled dog. 
  • Throughout the story, he undergoes a profound transformation as he taps into his ancestral instincts and learns to survive in the wild.
  • John Thornton: A prospector who becomes Buck’s master and forms a strong bond with him.
  • Thornton is a kind and understanding figure who recognizes Buck’s unique qualities. He plays a crucial role in Buck’s journey and becomes a symbol of the positive and compassionate human-animal relationship.
  • Spitz: A cunning and aggressive sled dog who initially antagonizes Buck in the harsh environment. Their rivalry becomes a central conflict in the story, reflecting the struggle for dominance in the wild.
  • Perrault and François: Sled drivers who initially take charge of Buck in the Klondike. They are responsible for training him to become a sled dog and play a role in shaping Buck’s survival instincts.
  • Curly: Another sled dog Buck encounters early in his journey. Curly is friendly but tragically meets a violent end, highlighting the harsh realities of life in the wild.
  • Hal, Charles, and Mercedes: Incompetent and inexperienced gold prospectors who later become Buck’s masters. 
  • Their lack of understanding of the wilderness contributes to the challenges faced by both humans and dogs in the unforgiving environment.

THE CALL OF THE WILD – SETTING

  • Santa Clara Valley, California: The story begins in the mild and comfortable surroundings of a domesticated environment in Santa Clara Valley, California. 
  • Buck, the central character, lives a pampered life as a St. Bernard-Scotch Collie mix until he is stolen and thrust into the harsh reality of the wild.
  • The Yukon Territory, Canada: The majority of the novel unfolds in the wild and frozen expanses of the Yukon Territory.
  • The harsh and perilous conditions of the Klondike Gold Rush era serve as the backdrop for Buck’s journey from a domesticated dog to a powerful and independent creature as he adapts to the challenges of the wilderness.
  • The setting plays a crucial role in the narrative, shaping the characters’ behaviors and driving the central themes of survival and the call of the wild.
  • London vividly portrays the brutality of nature and the elemental struggles faced by both humans and animals in the remote and challenging landscapes of the North.

THE CALL OF THE WILD – KEY THEMES

  • “The Call of the Wild” explores several themes that resonate throughout the novel, reflecting the transformative journey.

Primal Instincts and the Wild:

  • The novel delves into the innate, primal instincts within both animals and humans. It explores the call of the wild, the elemental forces that drive creatures to embrace their untamed nature.

Survival of the Fittest:

  • The story unfolds in the context of the harsh wilderness, emphasizing the Darwinian idea of survival of the fittest. Characters must adapt and demonstrate strength to endure the challenges of their environment.

Human-Animal Relationship:

  • The novel explores the complex dynamics between humans and animals, depicting the bonds, responsibilities, and mutual dependencies that exist in these relationships.

Freedom and Independence:

  • Characters in the story, particularly Buck, seek freedom and independence. The wild represents a space where individuals can break free from societal constraints and rediscover their true selves.

Civilization vs. Wilderness:

  • The tension between civilization and the wilderness is a recurring theme. The novel questions the impact of societal norms on individuals and contrasts the freedom of the wild with the constraints of civilization.

Transformation and Self-Discovery:

  • The protagonist, Buck, undergoes a profound transformation from a domesticated dog to a wild and powerful creature. 
  • This theme explores the idea of self-discovery and personal evolution in the face of challenges.

The Power of the Wild:

  • The wild is portrayed as a powerful force that shapes characters and influences their actions. It symbolizes both the harshness of nature and its transformative potential.

Instinct vs. Reason:

  • The novel examines the interplay between instinctual behaviors and rational thought, questioning the role of reason in the face of primal instincts and survival.
  • These themes collectively contribute to the novel’s exploration of the fundamental aspects of human and animal nature, the struggle for survival, and the allure of the untamed wilderness.

The Call of the Wild Worksheets

This fantastic bundle includes everything you need to know about the Literature Study: The Call of the Wild across 23 in-depth pages. These ready-to-use worksheets are perfect for teaching kids about The Call of the Wild. It was first published in 1903 and is set during the Klondike Gold Rush, a period of intense migration to the Yukon Territory in north-western Canada in the late 19th century.

Complete List of Included Worksheets

Below is a list of all the worksheets included in this document.

  1. The Call of the Wild Facts
  2. Literature Summary
  3. Story review
  4. Story Reflection
  5. Character Analysis
  6. Illustrating Buck
  7. The Man’s Best Friend
  8. The Yukon Territories
  9. Best of Both Worlds
  10. The Fitting End
  11. 120th Year Print

Frequently Asked Questions

What is “The Call of the Wild” about?

“The Call of the Wild” is a novel by Jack London that follows the story of Buck, a domesticated dog who is stolen from his comfortable home in California and sold into the harsh life of an Alaskan sled dog during the Klondike Gold Rush. As Buck adapts to the wild and learns the law of survival, the novel explores themes of primal instinct, civilization versus wilderness, and the innate desire for freedom.

Who is the protagonist of “The Call of the Wild”?

The protagonist of “The Call of the Wild” is Buck, a large and powerful St. Bernard-Scotch Collie mix. Buck’s journey from a pampered pet to a wild and independent creature is the central focus of the novel.

What are some key themes in “The Call of the Wild”?

Some key themes in “The Call of the Wild” include the primal instinct for survival, the conflict between civilization and the wilderness, the concept of leadership, and the idea of the natural order. Additionally, the novel explores themes of freedom, loyalty, and the transformative power of adversity.

How does the setting contribute to the story in “The Call of the Wild”?

The setting of the novel, which primarily takes place in the rugged wilderness of the Yukon Territory during the Klondike Gold Rush, serves as a crucial element in shaping the narrative. The harsh and unforgiving environment forces characters like Buck to confront their primal instincts and adapt to survive. It also reflects the broader themes of the novel, highlighting the contrast between the untamed wilderness and the constraints of civilization.

What is the significance of the relationship between Buck and John Thornton in “The Call of the Wild”?

The relationship between Buck and John Thornton is significant as it represents a profound connection between human and animal. Thornton serves as a compassionate and understanding master who recognizes Buck’s intelligence and inner strength. Their bond demonstrates themes of loyalty, trust, and companionship amidst the harsh realities of the wild. Thornton’s influence ultimately helps Buck fulfill his journey towards self-discovery and liberation.

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Use With Any Curriculum

These worksheets have been specifically designed for use with any international curriculum. You can use these worksheets as-is, or edit them using Google Slides to make them more specific to your own student ability levels and curriculum standards.

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