CONFLICT

Protagonist

White Fang, the wolf-dog, is the protagonist of the novel. His wild, aggressive nature makes him the enemy of his own kind, as well as of most humans.

Antagonist:

White Fang's antagonist is his fear and distrust of humans. Beauty Smith, a cruel man, introduces White Fang to dog fights and makes money off of him. At the insistence of Weedon Scott, he lets White Fang go, but later he tries to steal him back. White Fang detests him and ultimately loses his trust for all humans because of Beauty Smith.

Climax:

The climax occurs after Weedon Scott saves White Fang's life at a time when the wolf-dog is highly suspicious of humans. His 'mastery' over White Fang and love for him is something this animal has never experienced before. Scott's kindness to White Fang totally transforms the dog into a faithful and gentle pet. The moment of climax occurs when White Fang, after much attention and coaxing, allows Scott to pet him.

Outcome

The story ends in comedy, for White Fang overcomes his fear and mistrust of humans. At the end of the novel, White Fang is totally transformed. He is devoted to Scott, tolerant of children, and able to accept laughter. Scott's kindness and patience finally reaches White Fang, and he becomes domesticated in the true sense of the word. He is no longer aggressive, but he would do anything to protect his master. To save Judge Scott's life, he attacks and kills Jim Hall. In the process, White Fang is injured, almost to the point of death. The family, however, nurses him back to health and fatherhood. Although the story is filled with violence and hardship, the outcome of this novel is decidedly happy.

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