The Sea-Wolf

Historical Context and Significance

Jack London's novel "The Sea-Wolf," published in 1904, is a significant work in early 20th-century literature. The book explores themes of survival, morality, and human nature through the story of the encounter between the intellectual critic Humphrey Van Weyden and the brutal Captain Larsen. London uses the maritime setting as a metaphor to examine social and philosophical issues, making the novel an important contribution to the adventure genre and philosophical prose. The book's influence on culture is evident in its numerous adaptations and interpretations in film, theater, and other art forms, as well as its ongoing discussion in literary circles.