1. Man vs. Nature:
* Buck's struggle for survival in the harsh Alaskan wilderness: Buck is thrust into a completely different world, facing extreme cold, hunger, and dangerous predators. He must adapt to survive and overcome these challenges.
* The call of the wild: This is the overarching conflict. Buck is pulled between his domesticated life and the primal instincts that call him back to a wild existence. He grapples with his loyalty to humans and the growing desire for freedom and a return to his ancestral roots.
2. Man vs. Man:
* Buck's abuse and exploitation by various owners: He experiences cruelty, harsh training, and the loss of his freedom at the hands of men like Manuel and Perrault. This shapes his distrust of humans and strengthens his connection to the wild.
* The rivalry between Buck and Spitz: Buck is forced to compete with Spitz, the alpha dog, for dominance within the sled dog team. This struggle highlights the brutal nature of survival in the wild and the need for strength and cunning.
3. Man vs. Self:
* Buck's internal conflict: He grapples with his own desires, the memories of his former life, and the pull of his wild instincts. This inner struggle is evident as he navigates the conflicting demands of his new environment and the call of his primal heritage.
* The loss of his identity: Buck is forced to shed his domesticated identity and embrace a more primal, instinctual way of life. This leads to a loss of his former self and the emergence of a more powerful, independent creature.
4. Thematic Conflicts:
* Civilization vs. Nature: The novel explores the tension between the comforts and constraints of civilization and the freedom and brutal reality of the natural world. Buck's journey becomes a symbol of the struggle between these two forces.
* The power of instinct: "The Call of the Wild" delves into the fundamental nature of animals and the strength of their primal instincts. Buck's transformation from a domesticated dog to a powerful, wild creature showcases the enduring pull of these instincts.
* Individualism vs. Conformity: Buck is often forced to conform to the expectations and demands of his owners, but he ultimately chooses to embrace his own individualism and follow his own path. This theme of individuality is central to the novel.
These conflicts, both internal and external, drive the narrative and contribute to the complexity of Buck's journey. They highlight the themes of survival, adaptation, and the enduring power of instinct.