Jack London 1876-1916

John Griffith London (1876-1916) born in San Francisco unmarried mother of wealthy background Father may have been William Chaney, an astrologer Because Flora was ill, Jack was raised through infancy by an ex-slave, Virginia Prentiss Late in 1876, Flora married John London, a partially disabled Civil War veteran

Adopted the name of Jack Grew up in harsh poverty in the slums of San Francisco Survived on his wits and physical strength Became an avid reader Developed an appetite for learning Got into college Spending the winter of 1897 in the Yukon provided the metaphorical gold for his first stories. London's great love became agriculture, and he often stated he wrote to support his Beauty Ranch in Glen Ellen, California

Jack London on a water wagon at the ranch

London's first marriage (1900) was to Bess Maddern, with whom he had two daughters, Joan and Bess. In 1905 he married his "Mate Woman," Charmain, who became the persona for many of his female characters and who avidly joined him on his many travel ventures. Often troubled by physical ailments, during his thirties London developed kidney disease of unknown origin. He died of renal failure on November 22, 1916 on the ranch.

Portrait of Jack and Charmain London in South Seas, 1908

Jack London on board ship

Jack London in “The Klondike”

The “Snark” Hilo Harbor, Hawaii

Jack London and horse at Beauty Ranch, Glen Ellen a few weeks before the author’s death

What are some potential mistakes? Answer these: What is the best way to succeed in a feat that takes extraordinary courage and determination? What are some potential mistakes?

Think of examples or interpretations for the following themes… To Build a Fire by Jack London Think of examples or interpretations for the following themes…

Themes… Confidence without knowledge and skill is based on foolishness.

A person must be aware of both the things in life and their meaning.

The forces of nature can easily overpower the frail human body.

A person’s imagination is vital to his or her survival.

Animal instinct can be superior to human instinct.

Setting the Stage dog, hot drink, gun, face protector, axe, heavy blanket, signal flare, matchbook, warm food extra pair of mittens, extra pair of socks How would you fare facing freezing cold weather with only these things for survival?

Setting of the story