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Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer Essay

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Summary of the Novel

Main characters and theme, commentary on the central theme of the novel.

Rural nature has always been a source of inspiration for many American writers. Jon Krakauer is not an exception. Extreme weather and challenging conditions are the perfect backgrounds for exploring people’s psyche. In his famous book Into the Wild , Krakauer studies a story of “a well-educated young man with an above-average intellect and remarkable spiritual ambitions” (Vera, 2015, p. 43). The book explores many topics, such as difficulties in family relationships, the meaning of reaching manhood, materialism, and capitalism. This paper focuses on covering the characters of the book, especially Christopher McCandless, and studying the central theme — the search for personal freedom in times of modernity.

The book describes the details of real-life Christopher McCandless, a young man who decides to abandon past life. Shortly after graduating from a prestigious college, Christopher “cuts himself off both from his family and from the values and symbolic roles expected of him” (Hook, 2018, p. 5). Before taking off, he gives up his real name and takes a moniker Alexander Supertramp . McCandless starts a journey to the West and then into the Alaskan wilderness, looking for solitude and escape from societal norms. He spends his time hitchhiking, exploring nature on foot, and a canoe. At some point, Alex applies for a job in Los Angeles but then returns to his original plan (Krakauer, 2011). McCandless tests his limits by hunting, foraging, and camping alone. Eventually, he dies of starvation in an abandoned bus, where locals find his body.

Christopher McCandless, Alexander Supertramp, or simply Alex is the protagonist of the novel, an Emory University graduate who recently finished his education. According to Vera (2015), he disliked “money and mainstream values, despite the fact—or rather because of the fact—that he was “flipping Quarter Pounders at McDonald’s” (p. 46). Alex grew up with his parents and a younger sister, Carine, and had a classic father-son relationship issue. The parents, Billie and Walt, assumed that their son would pursue a career as a lawyer, but instead, he donated all of the money to charity (Krakauer, 2011). Walt, an aerospace engineer, dismissed his son’s decision to travel. Eventually, the family members concluded that they misread Alex and never really knew anything about his intentions.

Wayne Westerberg and Jim Gallien

During the journey, the main character encountered many locals and created strong bonds with several people. One of them was Wayne Westerberg, a thick-shouldered hyperkinetic man (Krakauer, 2011). Westerberg owned a grain elevator in Carthage and gave Alex a job. He appreciated the intelligence and hard-working nature of the young man (Krakauer, 2011). Jim Gallien was a driver who encountered Alex on his way to the Alaskan wilderness. During the two-hour drive, Gallien concluded that McCandless was not another delusional traveler, but a determined and intelligent person, who lived by his choice. However, the driver tried to talk Alex out of the survival quest because this hitchhiker did not have the necessary equipment for the journey. Both Westerberg and Gallien positively changed their opinion about McCandless during the encounter.

Jan Burres and her Boyfriend, Bob

Jan Burres and Bob met McCandless in the summer of 1990 when he was looking for berries alongside the highway. The couple offered him a ride and meal because Alex looked exhausted and extremely malnourished. The young man accepted the offer and camped with Burres and her partner for a week. Jan had a connection with Alex because she missed her son. Bob also had much in common with their new friend, as he too was interested in survivalism. Together they sold books at the local flea market, and Alex demonstrated enthusiasm as a salesman. McCandless kept in touch with the couple by sending them postcards even after two years after their departure.

Ronald Franz

Ronald Franz, another acquaintance of Alex, was an 80-year-old retired army veteran who once had issues with alcohol. Franz was different from other companions: although the old man provided the traveler with meals and necessary equipment, he also gave Alex emotional support and was like a father to him. He urged McCandless to leave a camp as he considered it to be a negative influence for a young man. However, he took McCandless’ advice against a passive lifestyle and waited for the return of his new friend. Franz was worried about the destiny of an ambitious adventurer and even wanted to adopt him. When he found out about McCandless’ death, he resumed drinking and gave up his belief in God.

The theme of the Book

Exploring the life of Christopher McCandless, Krakauer explores a number of topics such as family relationship, maturity, and manhood as well as survival in a capitalist society. However, the main idea of the book is freedom and its importance when a person is trapped inside a system of norms and rules. Sheils and Walsh (2017) state that the main character’s escape “signified precisely this, an attempted escape from—or opposition to—a given societal form of the symbolic order” (p. 136). To Alex, the only way to start a new life and find peace was to abandon the typical order of the life of an affluent American.

One could believe that the main character was actually a spiritually weak rebel, as he did not prepare himself for the journey and died for no purpose. On the surface level, there was not any reason for a well-to-do young man to give up his privileges and possibilities. Nonetheless, it should be noticed that Alex had full determination to change his life, and none of his actions was meaningless. According to Vera (2015), “McCandless created his poverty by artificial means, which might have been inspired by Thoreau’s condemnation of the market economy and materialism” (p. 46). It is possible to agree that the trip to Alaska offered him freedom and meaning. Although the main character of the book could have avoided the unnecessary challenge of wild nature, his decision deserves respect for strong determination and complete devotion to one’s beliefs and ideas.

Into the Wild covers the story of a young man who decided to test his abilities and personal qualities in the harsh conditions of Alaska. The man who considered himself to be impotent to connect with people eventually communicates and bonds with total strangers. The novel examines topics that are traditional for American and European literature, such as interpersonal relationships, psychological maturity, personal struggles in the system of beliefs that traps and diminishes individual desires and choices. The main topic is personal freedom as the real purpose of life, which can only be achieved by means of difficult choices. The book explains that personal decisions should be respected, no matter how different they are in one’s opinion.

Hook, D. (2018). Melancholic psychosis—A Lacanian approach. Psychoanalytic Dialogues, 28 (4), 466-480.

Krakauer, J. (2011). Into the wild . London, UK: Pan Macmillan.

Sheils, B., & Walsh, J. (Eds.). (2017). Narcissism, melancholia and the subject of community. London, UK: Pan Macmillan.

Vera, J. S. (2015). Thoreau as an oblique mirror: Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild, American Studies in Scandinavia, 47 (1), 40-60.

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Into The Wild - Essay Samples And Topic Ideas For Free

Into The Wild is a non-fiction book by Jon Krakauer that was later adapted into a film, chronicling the journey of Christopher McCandless into the Alaskan wilderness. Essays could explore themes like the quest for identity, the allure of adventure, and the critique of materialism presented in the narrative, as well as the broader societal reflections it offers. We’ve gathered an extensive assortment of free essay samples on the topic of Into The Wild you can find at PapersOwl Website. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

Why did Chris Mccandless Go into the Wild

Chris McCandless was an outside kinda individual and appreciated the life as one. Many viewed him as an untouchable, trap or blundering individual, anyway that was not the circumstance. McCandless was searching for another kind of big business and this drove him to Alaska and into nature to investigate and get another span on life. He surrendered everything finally including: cash, property, and needs. To him none of this was the best approach to ecstasy as his key was life […]

Into the Wild about Society

Transcendentalism is the era that "transcends" the limits of intellect, reason, and society, allowing emotions and the soul to aid in creating a relationship with the universe or nature to achieve perfection. This era occurred in the 1800s and was made from the start of controversial debates between "New Light" theologians and the "Old Light" opponents. The "New Light" members believed religion should focus on the people's personal experience, unlike the "Old Light" members who valued to have reason in […]

Comparing Chris McCandless, Everett Ruess and Jon Krakauer

Many people decide to live their lives alone. Though, only a few choose to live in the wild. In the book, Into the Wild, Jon Krakauer vividly depicts the adventuresome trek Chris McCandless left. From the friends and colleagues he made to the hardships he went through, McCandless is defined as a warm, sociable and friendly person despite the fact that he was a traveler. Other than McCandless, there are even more people that have decided the risks to live […]

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Perspectives of into the Wild by Jon Krakauer

Jon Krakauer is an American writer and a mountain climber. He was born April 12, 1954 in the State of Massachusetts. Jon Krakauer is well- known for his writing about the outdoors; one of the main topics that he writes about is mountain climbing. Into The Wild is a nonfiction novel, written by Jon Krakauer. It was told in third person omniscient. The story takes place in the Alaskan wilderness. The protagonists named Chris changes his name/identity to Alex because […]

Literary and Rhetorical Devices in into the Wild

In the story Into the Wild you follow a man by the name of Chris McCandless and his questionable thoughts. The author of a novel always plays an essential role in portraying the purpose to the audience. The story was written by a man with the name Jon Krakauer. Krakauer is an American writer and mountaineer, who is primarily known for writing stories about the outdoors, mostly mountain climbing. Jon Krakauer utilizes vivid imagery, specific details from Chris' journal, and […]

What Kind of Person was Chris McCandless?

Into The Wild is a novel by John Krakauer, that tells the story of Chris McCandless. Chris McCandless was a hiker and internet traveler from El Segundo, CA who was also known by the name of Alexander Supertramp. He came from a well to do upper-middle class family in Virginia, and was set to live well to do life. But Chris McCandless didn't want to live a life of materialism and decided to become a nomad and go into the […]

Into the Wild Freedom

In the book Into the Wild Christopher McCandless went to Alaska to live in nature with very little supplies. He was inexperienced and uneducated but he had his reasons to be out there, emotional reasons. Chris was searching for Answers, he wanted to explore the unknown, and get away from society. Chris also wanted to live a life without responsibility and he didn’t need to rely on other people for his survival, he was an independent man and he wanted […]

Into the Wild: the Quest for Adventure, Freedom, and Solace

In the novel Into The Wild, by Jon Krakauer, advances to catalog the life of an intelligent graduate student and former athlete, Chris McCandless. As well as how he suddenly decided to drop everything such as his possessions, all of his money, and a possible career. After realizing he didn’t need a wealthy lifestyle, he sets out on a massive hitchhiking journey from the east coast, all the way towards the outdoor freezing portions of Alaska. Only after a short […]

Is Chris McCandless a Hero?

Chris McCandless said, “The very basic core of a man's living spirit is his passion for adventure.” Chris McCandless was an adventuristic tramp who enjoyed the glories of nature and the wild, traveling all over North America by foot. McCandless lived out Transcendentalist philosophies by showing that nature is reliable in all aspects of life. McCandless’ journey was quite courageous and inspiring. Chris McCandless, also known as Alex Supertramp, was an adventurous man who sought the joy of freedom that […]

Into the Wild Materialism

“What is the purpose of life?” This simple question intimidates many who refuse to confront the reality of life. Living in a fast paced world consumed by technology and materialism, it is difficult for one to examine what is truly important to live life wholly. Because of this struggle, many settle with unhappy lives, wallowing in fear, regret and dissatisfaction. In John Krakauer’s novel Into the Wild, he examines the short life of Christopher McCandless, a courageous man who detached […]

Into the Wild Nature

There is no doubt that nature has given back to mankind. Everything individuals have anticipated that would continue was given by the ordinary world around us: food, water, medicine, materials for shelter, ect. Individuals, on the other hand, have caused issues that will keep on influencing the nature around us, for example, contamination through the improvement and advancement of technology. So, the real question is do we need nature or does nature need us, because as it seems that nature […]

What was Chris Mccandless Seeking in the Wilderness?

In April 1992, Christopher McCandless lands at the remote zone only North of Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska. Seeing Chris' ineptness, the newcomer who drops him off gives him a pair of boots. Chris goes into the wild and sets up an campfire at the relinquished automobile, which he calls "the Magic car". At first, McCandless is happy with the separation, the excellence of world in him, and the energy of living off the earth. He carries with […]

Seeking the Raw Essence of Existence: a Deep Dive into “Into the Wild”

The pursuit of authenticity, a life unencumbered by society's trappings, and a quest for raw, unfiltered experiences – these themes course through the veins of Jon Krakauer's compelling narrative, "Into the Wild". Chronicling the real-life journey of Christopher McCandless, who adopted the moniker "Alexander Supertramp", the book stands as a haunting exploration of the lengths a person might go to find genuine meaning in life. McCandless, a young man freshly graduated from Emory University, chose to leave behind a life […]

Christopher Mccandless: a Transcendental Philosopher

Into the wild is a biographical drama and it is based on true story, telling us about an adventurer called Christopher McCandless. This is a cinematic masterpiece, where the main character denies himself of the luxury of an upper middle class family and dives into a lifestyle of nature and self discovery. This movie offers us an insight on how we construct nature, especially wilderness,as a place for self discovery, transcendence and an escape from society. Chris, the main character, […]

Chris McCandless’s Extreme Ethics

Once in everyone’s life time people start to realize they can make their own decisions. We become independent and self sufficient. Chris McCandless in the non-fiction book “Into The Wild” was a person who was separated from everyone, didn’t have many friends, And was known for being a weird person by his classmates. His family was together, but broken. Chris had never really been independent in his life. This is what motivated him to take the trip to Alaska to […]


Release date :	September 6, 2008 (Japan)
Director :	Sean Penn
Music by :	Michael Brook; Kaki King; Eddie Vedder
Adapted from :	Into the Wild
Box office :	$56.8 million
Nominations :	Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor

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How To Write an Essay About Into The Wild

Understanding 'into the wild'.

Before starting an essay about Jon Krakauer's 'Into the Wild,' it's important to understand the book thoroughly. 'Into the Wild' is a non-fiction book that explores the life and death of Christopher McCandless, a young man who ventured into the Alaskan wilderness in search of a more authentic existence, away from societal constraints. Begin by analyzing the main themes of the book, such as the allure of wilderness, the critique of materialism, and the search for meaning in life. Familiarizing yourself with McCandless's journey, Krakauer's narrative style, and the book's structure will provide a solid foundation for your essay.

Formulating a Thesis Statement

Your essay should be centered around a clear, concise thesis statement. This could be an argument about the book's central themes, Krakauer's portrayal of McCandless, or the broader implications of McCandless's journey for understanding the relationship between humanity and nature. Whatever your focus, your thesis should guide the direction of your essay and provide a unique perspective on 'Into the Wild.'

Gathering Supporting Evidence

To build a strong argument, gather evidence from the book to support your thesis. This might involve analyzing specific events in McCandless's journey, Krakauer's use of other adventurers' stories, or the way he incorporates his own experiences into the narrative. Select quotes and instances from the book that align with your thesis, and use them to support your argument effectively.

Analyzing Krakauer's Narrative and Themes

In your essay, analyze how Krakauer narrates McCandless's story and the themes he explores. Discuss Krakauer's narrative technique, including his use of flashbacks, letters, and interviews. Examine how Krakauer develops the themes of adventure, idealism, and the harsh realities of nature, and how these themes contribute to our understanding of McCandless's character and motivations.

Concluding the Essay

Conclude your essay by summarizing the main points of your analysis and restating your thesis. Your conclusion should tie together your interpretation of 'Into the Wild' and reflect on the broader significance of the story. You might also want to consider the impact of McCandless's story on contemporary society or how it fits into the genre of adventure and wilderness literature.

Reviewing and Refining the Essay

After completing your essay, take time to review and refine it. Check for coherence in your argument and clarity in your writing. Ensure that your essay is well-structured and free from grammatical errors. Consider seeking feedback from peers or instructors to further improve your essay. A well-crafted essay on 'Into the Wild' should not only convey your understanding of the book but also demonstrate your ability to engage critically with literary texts.

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Into The Wild Argumentative Essay

McCandless, a compassionate young man who stole the hearts of everyone he met, possesses a thirst for adventure. Throughout Into the Wild, by Jon Krakauer, numerous individuals have misinterpreted McCandless as a reckless idiot who had squandered his life away; however, after deep scrutiny of Jon Krakauer’s work, McCandless is better characterized as a non conformed sensation seeker. Furthermore, McCandless could distinct with his virtuous actions he had perpetrated throughout his reclusive life. McCandless should be acknowledged for his adamant state of mind, ascetic lifestyle, and charismatic personality. Before commencing, McCandless’s action can not be fathom without knowing what his compelling factors were. As a child McCandless was always pressured by his parents, Walt and Billie to succeed in the life in which society has idolize; becoming rich and obtaining a high-paying job. McCandless, however, abhorred this lifestyle; he was more inclined toward a solitary life. With his idiosyncratic strives McCandless can be…

This in particular have caused many audiences to categorize McCandless as a stigma of society. McCandless was born wealthy, he was smart, he had a future ahead of him and yet he disregards all. He ventures off into the wild packing only a miniscule amount of resources with the hope of sustaining. “Unlike Muir and Thoreau, McCandless went into the wilderness not primarily to ponder nature or the world at large but, rather, to explore the inner country of his own soul,” (Krakauer 183). disclaims McCandless’s as a waste. He lived a life full of purpose, the ascetic life. McCandless did not believe in being controlled by society for he believes it limits our potential, “Chris’s seemingly anomalous political positions were perhaps best summed up by Thoreau’s declaration in ‘Civil Disobedience’: ‘I heartily accept the motto—‘That government is best which governs least,” (Krakauer…

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Home / Essay Samples / Literature / Into The Wild / A Rhetorical Analysis Of Into The Wild

A Rhetorical Analysis Of Into The Wild

Category: Literature
Topic: Book Review , Chris Mccandless , Into The Wild

Pages: 2 (894 words)

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