What is a central theme of "The Call of the Wild" as Buck evolves?

The central theme of "The Call of the Wild" revolves around the conflict between civilization and nature, particularly as Buck, the protagonist, undergoes significant transformation throughout the story. Initially, Buck is accustomed to a comfortable life in a human household, representative of civilization and domestication. However, as he is thrust into the harsh realities of the wild and forced to adapt to survive, Buck experiences a profound awakening to his primal instincts and the call of nature.

This conflict is evident as Buck learns to navigate a world governed by the law of survival, where strength, cunning, and adaptability are paramount. His journey reflects the struggle between his ingrained habits from his domesticated life and the natural instincts that emerge in response to the challenges of the wilderness. This theme emphasizes the broader philosophical inquiry into the relationship between humanity and the natural world, and how one’s true nature often surfaces when faced with life-and-death circumstances.

The other themes, while present in different contexts, do not carry the same weight as the overarching conflict between civilization and nature. The importance of friendship among animals may play a role in Buck's relationships, but it is not the driving force of his evolution. The comparison of strength between humans and animals is certainly explored, but it is secondary