White Fang

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1906

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Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Tools

Beta

Discussion Questions

Essay Topics

In Part 1, London introduces Henry, who doesn’t return to in the rest of the novel. Why does London use Henry’s story to begin the novel, rather than beginning with White Fang, who is the novel’s real protagonist?

How does gender function in wolf society? Based on what is known now about how wolves mate and socialize, is London’s depiction of sexual competition and gender hierarchies among the wolves accurate? Why or why not? Cite a credible outside source, as well as the text, in your response.

Consider Plato’s Allegory of the Cave in relation to White Fang. How is Plato’s cave represented in the novel, and how does it contribute to White Fang’s character development?

Discuss Kiche’s relationship with Grey Beaver and his camp. In what ways does her experience with humans parallel White Fang’s, and in what ways does it differ?

Does London advocate for the domestication of wildlife, or does he critique it? Support your reasoning with evidence from the text.

How is White Fang characterized in comparison to other dogs and wolves that he meets along his journey? Why does London draw these comparisons?

Who or what is the main antagonist in the novel? Is it Beauty? How does his inclusion introduce a new tone and message to the novel as a whole?

What are the limitations of London’s narrative as told through the eyes of an animal? In your opinion, do these limitations influence how you read or sympathize with the text? Explain your answers.

What internal and external changes take place in White Fang after he meets Scott? How do these changes represent major character development for White Fang?

10.

Select three passages and analyze London’s use of language to evoke the sublime in nature. Analyze how his linguistic choices (such as syntax, word choice, pacing, use of punctuation, etc.) and use of literary devices (such as simile and metaphor) create a feeling of awe.