The Heathen

The short story "The Heathen" was written by American author Jack London. It appeared for the first time in Everybody's Magazine in August 1910[1]. Later, it was included in two story collections published by London: South Sea Tales (Macmillan, 1911) and The Strength of the Strong (Macmillan, 1914).In the story, two people, from different cultural and racial backgrounds, are the only survivors of a ship that encounters a hurricane in the Pacific, and they remain together.

Jack London

Jack London, born John Griffith Chaney on January 12, 1876, and died on November 22, 1916, was an American writer known for his novels, journalism, and activism. He was one of the first American authors to gain international fame and wealth from his writing, and he helped pioneer modern science fiction.

JackLondon

London was involved with a radical literary group in San Francisco called "The Crowd" and was a strong supporter of animal rights, workers' rights, and socialism. He explored these themes in his works like the dystopian novel *The Iron Heel* and the non-fiction book *The People of the Abyss*.

Some of his most famous works are *The Call of the Wild* and *White Fang*, which are set in Alaska and the Yukon during the Klondike Gold Rush. He also wrote well-known short stories such as "To Build a Fire," "An Odyssey of the North," and "Love of Life," as well as stories about the South Pacific like "The Pearls of Parlay" and "The Heathen.

Jack London, a master of adventure and naturalism, gifted readers with numerous tales that capture the raw essence of human spirit and nature's unforgiving realm. Among his diverse body of work, the short story "The Heathen" stands out for its compelling narrative and rich thematic content. This blog will delve into the intricacies of "The Heathen," exploring its characters, themes, title significance, background, moral, and narrative technique.

Background

'The Heathen' was first published in 1909, during a time when Jack London was deeply engaged in writing about the South Pacific. This period marked a shift from his more well-known tales set in the Arctic wilderness, such as *The Call of the Wild* and *White Fang*. Inspired by his own voyages across the Pacific, London penned stories that reflected the exotic locales and the diverse cultures he encountered. "The Heathen" is a product of this inspiration, offering a glimpse into the life and landscapes of the South Seas.

Plot Summary

The Heathen" follows the journey of two characters, Charley and Otoo, as they navigate the treacherous waters of the South Pacific. Charley, an American adventurer, and Otoo, a native islander, form a bond that transcends racial and cultural barriers. Their friendship is tested by a series of harrowing events, including a shipwreck, survival on a deserted island, and encounters with hostile natives.

Characters

Charley: The protagonist and narrator of the story, Charley is a typical London hero—rugged, adventurous, and pragmatic. His character represents the Western ideals of individualism and bravery.

Otoo: The titular "heathen," Otoo is Charley's loyal companion. Despite being labeled a heathen due to his native background and beliefs, Otoo displays noble qualities such as loyalty, intelligence, and bravery, challenging the prejudiced notions held by many of the story's characters.

Themes

1. Friendship and Loyalty: The bond between Charley and Otoo is central to the story. Their relationship highlights the theme that true friendship transcends race and culture.

2. Survival and Resilience: Both characters exhibit remarkable resilience in the face of numerous adversities, embodying the human instinct to survive against all odds. 

3. Cultural Prejudice and Acceptance: The story challenges the reader to reconsider their own prejudices by portraying Otoo, a "heathen," as a noble and heroic figure.

Title Significance

The title "The Heathen" is significant as it reflects the cultural prejudices of the time. Otoo is referred to as a heathen because of his non-Western origins and beliefs. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Otoo's moral compass and loyalty far exceed those of many so-called civilized individuals. The title thus serves as a critique of the superficial judgments based on cultural and racial differences.

Narrative Technique

Jack London employs a first-person narrative, allowing readers to see the world through Charley's eyes. This perspective is crucial as it provides an intimate understanding of Charley's evolving views on Otoo. The descriptive language vividly brings to life the exotic locales and perilous situations, immersing the reader in the adventure.

Moral of the Story

The moral of "The Heathen" is that true nobility and heroism are not determined by one's race or religion but by one's actions and character. The story advocates for the recognition and appreciation of humanity in all its forms, urging readers to look beyond superficial differences.