Table of ContentsIntroductionBuck's Transformation and the Humanization of AnimalsThe Moral and Ethical Implications of AnthropomorphismThe Dual Nature of Anthropomorphism: empathy and estrangementConclusionWorks CitedIntroductionAnthropomorphism, the attribution of human characteristics to animals or non-human entities, is a recurring theme in literature, sparking intrigue and debate. Jack London's classic novel, "The Call of the Wild," provides a compelling backdrop for the examination of anthropomorphism, as it delves into the emotional and intellectual world of a dog named Buck. This essay explores the pervasive presence of anthropomorphism in the novel, highlighting how it enhances our understanding of the animal protagonist, while raising thought-provoking questions about the blurred lines between human and animal. Say no to plagiarism. Get a custom essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayBuck's Transformation and the Humanization of AnimalsIn “The Call of the Wild,” the central character, Buck, is a domestic dog who undergoes a profound transformation as he adapts to the rugged wilderness of the Yukon during the Klondike Gold Rush. This transformation is at the heart of the novel's exploration of anthropomorphism. Initially, Buck is depicted as a pampered and loyal pet, living in the comfort of a California estate. However, when he is stolen and thrown into the harsh world of the North, Buck's gradual transition into a wild, more primitive creature unfolds. His experiences reflect the human journey of self-discovery and adaptation in unfamiliar and difficult environments. London skillfully uses anthropomorphism to depict Buck's emotional and intellectual development. Through the use of vivid descriptions and the depiction of Buck's thoughts and feelings, readers gain access to the dog's inner world. This allows us to empathize with Buck, seeing him not only as an animal but also as a sentient being capable of complex emotions, such as fear, anger, and desire. Buck's character development reflects human growth and resilience, emphasizing the novel's underlying theme that wilderness can awaken the dormant instincts and qualities of all creatures, not just humans. questions about the treatment of animals and the consequences of anthropomorphism. As Buck becomes more "wild" and embraces his primal instincts, readers are forced to confront uncomfortable truths about animal domestication. Anthropomorphism, in this context, serves as a literary device that challenges societal norms and assumptions about the roles and treatment of animals in human society. Through Buck's experiences and perspective, the novel highlights the cruelty inherent in the exploitation of animals for human purposes. Whether it is the brutal treatment at the hands of humans or the dogfights he is forced to participate in, Buck's suffering elicits sympathy and condemnation of the callousness with which humans often treat animals. This element of the novel serves as a powerful critique of anthropocentrism, the belief that humans are the center of the universe and superior to all other beings. The dual nature of anthropomorphism: empathy and estrangement. dual purpose: it promotes empathy for animal characters while emphasizing the fundamental differences between humans and animals. As readers are drawn to the world..