How do Buck's actions throughout Chapter 4 provoke decisions and reveal insight into his new character?

Though Francois recognizes and respects the hierarchical structure of the dog society, his struggle with Buck reveals a barrier between the dogs and the humans. Francois does not understand the extent to which the dogs must be allowed to master themselves. When he succumbs to Buck and lets him take the lead position in the team lineup, he learns something about the relationship of man and beast, just as when Buck learned a lesson from the man in the red sweater. In this way, they struggle as two equals, Buck trying to communicate and Francois trying to understand. This scene also suggests that the humans are slightly deluded in their confidence of ultimate control. Just as Francois and Perrault were not able to protect their dogs when the wild huskies attacked, they now cannot master Buck. The club, which is the most powerful weapon available to humans, no longer has an effect, for Buck has learned how to get his way.

In killing Spitz, Buck gained power over his pack; in forcing his position as leader, Buck gains power over his human leaders as well. He forces them to recognize their dependence on his cooperation. But he never goes to far in his rebellion. He rewards them for their trust in him by proving himself worthy of his position, and he makes his rebellion up to them by taking strong command of the other dogs.

Dametrias Zaquingledale