What theme does Buck's transformation from a domestic dog to a wild creature illustrate?

Buck's transformation from a domestic dog to a wild creature powerfully illustrates the theme of the struggle for survival and adaptation. Throughout the novel, Buck is thrust into the harsh realities of life in the wild, where he must learn to navigate a world governed by the primitive instincts of survival. As he faces numerous challenges, including competition for resources and the need to assert his dominance, Buck sheds the layers of his domesticated life, demonstrating his innate ability to adapt to his environment.

This transformation is a central focus of the narrative, highlighting the primal instincts that awaken within Buck as he confronts the fierce realities of the wilderness. His journey reflects the broader theme of adapting to circumstances out of necessity, showcasing how life in the wild requires not just strength and courage, but also the ability to learn, change, and ultimately survive in a brutal world. This theme resonates deeply within the story, as Buck evolves into a creature shaped by his experiences, illustrating the raw power of nature and the instinctual drive to thrive against all odds.