What role does instinct play in Buck's transformation?

Buck's transformation throughout "The Call of the Wild" is heavily influenced by his instincts, which become increasingly relevant as he adapts to the harsh realities of life in the wilderness. His instincts guide him in navigating new challenges, such as hunting, fighting, and ultimately, survival in the wild. As he encounters different experiences and learns from them, these instincts awaken a primal part of his nature that had been dormant during his life as a domesticated pet. This innate guidance allows him to grow stronger and more attuned to his environment, showcasing the importance of instinct as a driving force in his development and adaptation to the wild.

The other options highlight aspects of Buck's journey but do not capture the transformative role of instinct as effectively. For example, while there's a sense of confusion early on as Buck transitions from domestication to wilderness, it is ultimately his instinct that helps him overcome these feelings. Similarly, rejecting his heritage may occur as he evolves, but it's his instinctual responses that primarily facilitate his journey toward embracing his true self in the wild.