What theme might be explored through a character oscillating between civilized life and nature?

The theme explored through a character oscillating between civilized life and nature is primarily the clash of civilization and wilderness. This theme embodies the tension and contrast between the structured, societal norms of civilization and the raw, instinctual existence found in nature. In "The Call of the Wild," Buck, the protagonist, experiences both environments, which shapes his identity and challenges his understanding of life.

As he journeys from a domesticated pet to a primal creature in the wilderness, Buck confronts the differences between the comfort and constraints of civilization and the freedom and struggles of the wild. The juxtaposition of these two worlds highlights the conflicts individuals face when navigating between societal expectations and their inherent instincts. Buck's transformations reflect how the natural world can strip away the layers of civilization, revealing fundamental truths about survival, loyalty, and the essence of being alive. This theme resonates throughout the narrative, underscoring the broader implications of the relationship between humans (or domestic animals) and the untamed aspects of nature.