Individualism and Power

Where it surfaces

• III

  Wolf Larsen's absolute authority over the crew is displayed through his brutal treatment of Leach and his control over Humphrey's fate.

• V

  Wolf Larsen's absolute authority is displayed through physical violence and his philosophical dominance over Humphrey.

• VI

  Larsen's absolute authority and Johnson's assertion of his own identity illustrate the struggle between individual will and oppressive power.

• VIII

  Wolf Larsen embodies extreme individualism, asserting that might makes right and that altruism is meaningless.

• Chapter X

  Wolf Larsen's self-education and rise to captaincy exemplify radical individualism, yet his bitterness over unfulfilled potential highlights the limits of power without opportunity.

• XII

  Wolf Larsen's absolute power is challenged by Leach's audacious public condemnation, highlighting the tension between individual will and authority.

• XVI

  Wolf Larsen's absolute power over the crew and his individualistic justification for cruelty are central, as is Humphrey's struggle to assert his own agency.

• Chapter XVII

  Wolf Larsen's defiant joy and command over the ship and crew during the storm exemplify his individual will and power.

• XVIII

  Wolf Larsen's absolute authority over the crew and his relentless pursuit of the escapees demonstrate his individualistic and domineering nature.

• XIX

  Wolf Larsen exerts absolute power over the crew and castaways, while Humphrey begins to assert his own individuality and moral stance.

• XX

  Wolf Larsen asserts his authority over the crew and Maud, while Humphrey struggles to maintain his dignity and neutrality.

• XXII

  Wolf Larsen's absolute power over the ship is contrasted with the powerless individuals (Humphrey, Maud) who must resort to deception to endure.

• XXIV

  Wolf Larsen exerts his authority by banishing the hunters, and his rivalry with Death Larsen highlights the brutal competition for dominance and resources.

• XXV

  Wolf Larsen exerts his dominance through physical violence and strategic cunning, asserting his will over the crew and his brother's ship.

• XXVI

  Wolf Larsen's control over his crew and his intellectual dominance in conversation highlight his individualistic and powerful nature.

• XXXII

  Wolf Larsen's taunts and his survival despite being marooned underscore his individualistic philosophy and the shifting power dynamics between him and Humphrey.

• XXXIV

  Humphrey asserts his independence and power over Wolf Larsen, declaring he can now 'eat' him and threatening to shoot him if necessary.

• XXXIX

  Humphrey's pride in his own craftsmanship and his ability to command the ship reflect his growing sense of personal power.