1. Man vs. Nature: Mowgli, a human child raised by wolves, faces the constant struggle of navigating the wild jungle and its dangers. This conflict forces him to question his identity, his place in the world, and whether he truly belongs with man or beast.
2. The Struggle for Identity: Mowgli grapples with his dual nature - he's both human and raised by animals. He doesn't fully fit in with either, leading to a struggle to define himself and find his place in the world.
3. The Dangers of Power and Control: Shere Khan, the tiger, represents the forces of chaos and evil, constantly seeking to dominate and control the jungle. This highlights the dangers of unchecked power and the need for balance and cooperation.
4. The Importance of Belonging: Mowgli's journey underscores the fundamental human need for belonging and acceptance. He seeks acceptance from both the animal and human worlds, but ultimately discovers that true belonging comes from within himself.
5. The Conflict Between Tradition and Change: The book touches on the tension between the old ways of the jungle, represented by Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther, and the changing world of the humans. Mowgli's journey represents the inevitable collision of these two worlds.
Ultimately, the "main problem" depends on how you interpret the story. Each reader may find different aspects of the book most compelling and impactful.