The Story of Doctor Dolittle · Theme
Freedom vs. Captivity
How The Story of Doctor Dolittle develops Freedom vs. Captivity.
The book contrasts the freedom of animals in their natural habitats with captivity in circuses or cages, as seen when the Doctor refuses to cage the pushmi-pullyu and rescues animals from oppressive situations.
Where it surfaces
- VI: Polynesia and the King
The Doctor and his animals are imprisoned in a dungeon, and Polynesia's ruse is aimed at securing their freedom.
- VII: The Bridge of Apes
The Doctor and his animals flee the King's pursuit to reach the safety of the Land of the Monkeys, escaping imprisonment.
- XI: The Black Prince
The Doctor and his animals are recaptured and imprisoned, highlighting the struggle for freedom.
- Medicine and Magic
The Doctor and his animals are imprisoned by the King and must use cunning and magic to secure their release and escape.
- Home Again
The Doctor refuses to sell the pushmi-pullyu to circus-men, insisting it must remain free to come and go.