Into the Wild | Topics for Discussion & Projects

Into the Wild Suggested Essay Topics

Give at least three examples from the story, which demonstrate Chris McCandless's wilderness knowledge and preparation.

Cite three or more examples from the text, which indicate McCandless's lack of preparation or naivety regarding the challenges of living in the wild.

On balance, do you believe McCandless was a reckless greenhorn or a well-prepared wilderness adventurer? Why?

Do you believe McCandless's decision to leave his family without a word was justified? Why or why not?

Author Krakauer describes the "pornographic" fascination which the photograph of a mountain held for him in his youth. What did he mean by this?

McCandless followed an intentionally celibate and solitary lifestyle, yet found passionate enjoyment in risking his life in the wilderness. Do you believe McCandless's self-denial was a contributory cause to his penchant for thrill-seeking? Or, do you think his passion for dangerous adventure was simply a natural inclination, which eclipsed all other forms...
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