What literary device predominantly illustrates Buck’s evolution?

Symbolism plays a crucial role in illustrating Buck's evolution throughout "The Call of the Wild." As a domesticated dog that transforms into a wild and independent creature, various elements in the narrative symbolize different aspects of his development. For instance, Buck’s gradually increasing connection to his primal instincts is symbolized through his experiences in the wilderness, the challenges he faces, and the relationships he develops with both humans and other animals.

Certain key elements, such as the law of club and fang, represent the harsh realities of survival in the wild, serving as a symbolic backdrop against which Buck's transformation occurs. Buck himself becomes a symbol of resilience and adaptability as he sheds the trappings of his domesticated life in favor of embracing his ancestral heritage. This metamorphosis is punctuated by symbols such as his interactions with John Thornton, which represent loyalty and the bond that both reinforces and tempers his wild instincts.

Overall, the use of symbolism in Buck's journey is integral to understanding the depth of his character development, showcasing how external influences and innate instincts collide to shape his identity across the narrative.