The Sea-Wolf

How does Wolf Larsen's view morality and social interaction?

From the novel The Sea Wolf by Jack London.

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If nothing else, Sea Wolf demonstrates the axiom "those to whom evil is done, do evil themselves." Wolf Larsen seems blind to the connection between his own behavior and the way others treat him. His moral blind spot makes it possible for him to continue doing evil—including aggravated assault, kidnapping, attempted murder and murder—because he fears others will do him evil so he must do it to them first. The reader gets a lesson in payback by reading about relations between Captain Larsen and his crewmen. Evil, it seems, runs in families just as much as alcoholism or domestic violence. Unfortunately, Larsen is unable to face the reality of his actions and their consequences so he experiences no growth. Humphrey and Maud, however, learn from their exposure to evil that they need to actively work against it and for their own salvation.

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