Jack London's literary work during the early 1900s showcases his fascination with the theme of survival in primal environments. This preoccupation is evident in novels like The Call of the Wild, The Sea-Wolf, and White Fang. Through these narratives, London explores the transformation of both man and beast when removed from civilization's comforts and thrust into nature's unforgiving domains.

The Conceptual Genesis of The Sea-Wolf

The inception of The Sea-Wolf is rooted in London's own seafaring experiences. Initially, he envisioned a tale titled "The Mercy of the Sea," inspired by his own maritime adventures. However, while crafting The Call of the Wild, the theme of human mastery over primitive challenges captivated him, influencing the direction of his subsequent work. London decided to explore the human ability to adapt when subjected to the harsh realities of the sea. By juxtaposing a "cultured, refined, super-civilized" man and woman against a "primitive sea-environment," London aimed to depict their emergence from the ordeal triumphantly.

The narrative of The Sea-Wolf not only mirrored the popular adventure themes of the time, akin to the escapades found in Robert Louis Stevenson's works but also integrated deep philosophical components that elevated it beyond mere adventure fiction.

London's Path and Philosophy

London's varied life experiences, from oyster piracy to gold prospecting in the Klondike, informed his writing, lending authenticity to his adventure narratives. Before becoming a full-time writer with the success of The Son of the Wolf in 1900, he endured numerous menial jobs that provided him with a rich tapestry of encounters and insights into human nature. These diverse experiences, particularly his time as a sailor, imbued The Sea-Wolf with vivid, realistic depictions of life aboard a sealing ship.

Beyond the surface adventure, The Sea-Wolf is imbued with philosophical insights drawn from London's extensive self-education. The influence of Charles Darwin, Herbert Spencer, and Friedrich Nietzsche is evident in the narrative. Darwin's theories on natural selection and the survival of the fittest, Spencer's social Darwinism, and Nietzsche's concept of the "superman" are all interwoven into the fabric of the story, particularly embodied in the characters of Humphrey Van Weydon and Wolf Larsen.

The Conflict of Philosophies

The plot of The Sea-Wolf revolves around the clash between civilization and raw nature, represented by the characters of Humphrey Van Weydon, a refined intellectual, and Wolf Larsen, the embodiment of brute strength and individualism. On board the Ghost, a violent hierarchy prevails, where strength, intimidation, and aggression determine one's place. This environment echoes the competitive worldviews of Spencer and Nietzsche, with Larsen epitomizing Nietzsche's superman—physically formidable and intellectually acute, yet adhering to an amoral, individualistic code.

Larsen's philosophy is starkly naturalistic, valuing survival and strength above all else. His harsh treatment of his crew, including dragging the cook overboard and allowing others to drown, illustrates his belief in life's expendability and the necessity of dominance for survival. Despite London's depiction of such brutality, the novel also critiques this worldview, presenting a counterpoint through Humphrey's struggle to uphold civilized values.

The Role of Humanism

Despite the harsh realities aboard the Ghost, Humphrey remains committed to his moral convictions, championing the dignity of the individual and the importance of compassion. His philosophical debates with Larsen reveal his resistance to the latter's naturalistic outlook. However, the brutal environment challenges Humphrey's ideals, pushing him to the brink of abandoning his moral code.

The introduction of Maud Brewster, a literary figure embodying humanistic values, reinvigorates Humphrey's resolve. Although her presence introduces an element of sentimental romance into the story, Maud's character symbolizes the virtues of a civilized society. Under her influence,...