Themes and Analysis

“The Jungle Book” by Rudyard Kipling is a collection of stories that weave together adventure, morality, and the exploration of the natural world through fable. The narrative is rich with symbolism, themes of identity and belonging, and a profound respect for nature and its laws.

Themes

“The Jungle Book” treats themes such as abandonment and identity, courage, rules, and their relationship to authority. These themes are pertinent for a book for children at the cusp of adulthood, and the book’s moral and ethical messages are relevant to every age.

Foster Care and Abandonment

A recurrent theme in “The Jungle Book” is a young character’s loss of parents, feelings of abandonment by those characters, and foster parents or mentors providing them with much-needed care, affection, and guidance.

Mowgli is prominent in this respect. Shere Khan drives away his parents, and he is raised in a wolf pack by Father and Mother Wolf, but while growing up, he is made to believe that he is not a part of the community he feels at home with. Ultimately, much to his sorrow, he is banished from the Seeonee pack. Furthermore, in his second adoptive family, with Messua in the village, he does not live long before he is kicked out. Mowgli is forced to wander alone, without a community to call his own.

To a lesser extent, Rikki Tikki Tavi could be said to share this experience of being separated from one’s parents. Rikki is washed up in a flood and picked up by Ted’s family.

Rules and Authority

The Law of the Jungle, a code of conduct regulating social interactions among the jungle fauna, is essential in the part of “The Jungle Book” featuring Mowgli. In “Her Majesty’s Servants”, rules and responsibility form the basis of the conversation among the regiment animals when they meet.

Kipling does not quite tell the story of the jungle as such because animals do not organize themselves in rule-based societies as presented in “The Jungle Book“. Instead, he shows how a well-ordered society benefits from codes of behavior generally agreed upon. If the individuals in such social groups obey these rules, greater social harmony is fostered, and the members can pursue common goals with better chances of success.

This theme emphasizes the moral nature of the stories’ messages. The Bandar-log are lawless and irresponsible and, therefore, shunned by all the other law-abiding members of the jungle. They are known for making bold claims but cannot follow through with the most basic plans and live below their potential. Shere Khan, whose utter disdain for the law is evident in how easily he boasts of committing taboos, meets a sordid and shameful end. It is as if the story suggests that the wages of flouting the law is death.

Courage

The test of bravery shows up in many instances in the stories of “The Jungle Book“. The tales reinforce that courage is essential for survival, and the characters must confront their fears.

Mowgli, the central character, exhibits bravery in the face of numerous dangers in the jungle. From driving away Shere Khan with a burning stick to escaping when the Bandar Log kidnaps him, culminating in his showdown with Shere Khan, he faces his fears squarely and does not cower. His mentors, Baloo the bear and Bagheera, the panther, are no slackers in this regard, as they throw themselves in harm’s way against a troop of monkeys to save Mowgli.

In the short story ‘Rikki-Tikki-Tavi‘, the mongoose Rikki-Tikki displays tremendous bravery as he fearlessly defends his adoptive human family against dangerous cobras. More subtly, Kotic, the main character of ‘The White Seal‘, exhibits courage and determination as he sets out, without any guarantee of success, to find a place where his seal brothers will be free from human predation.

Identity

Mowgli is a human raised by wolves, a panther, and a bear. His name means ‘Frog’. You can appreciate what a crisis of identity such a boy would face.

“The Jungle Book” deals with personal identity in several of its stories but most noticeably in the Mowgli stories. The journey of discovering and accepting one’s identity is central to the narrative. His foster parents have a hard time convincing the wolf pack to allow him to join, and even when they do, it turns out that the acceptance is not complete. He is driven out of the pack. And he was distinguished in the things he could do that other animals could not do. He could carry fire and pick out thorns from their paws, and they feared his eyes and would not look him in the eyes for long.

Mowgli’s sense of belonging is constantly challenged. He is accepted as a wolf pack member yet always remains different. When the cubs with whom he was raised drive him out, he wanders into Messua’s village and is adopted by her. Here, too, he raises xenophobic sentiment. The villagers eventually send him off.

Coming-of-Age

In keeping with stories meant for a young audience, most of the stories in “The Jungle Book” address the maturity of its young characters. The reader traces a critical event or a series of events that mark their change from helplessness and immaturity to self-assertion, competence, or independence.

Mowgli’s dramatic growth from the helpless man cub threatened by Shere Khan to the young lad who drives Shere Khan from the jungle and saves Akela from wolf cubs ganging up on him impresses this point on the reader. Ultimately, with the help of Akela and Grey Brother, he eliminates Shere Khan with wit and strategy and, most importantly, confidence in his ability to overcome his enemy.

In a similar vein, Kotic’s impression of helpless seals clubbed to death by human hunters sparks a desire to find a paradise where seals would live out of the reach of human predators. It marks his maturation when he not only finds the sought-after paradise but stands his ground and convinces the skeptical seals (even if in combat) to accompany him.

Key Moments

1. Mowgli’s Adoption: After escaping from Shere Khan, the Mother Wolf, Raksha discovers the infant Mowgli. The pack, led by Akela, decides to adopt Mowgli and raise him as one of their own. This moment is key because it sets the stage for Mowgli’s unique upbringing in the jungle. It introduces the central conflict between Mowgli and Shere Khan. It also highlights acceptance, identity, and belonging themes as Mowgli is integrated into the wolf pack.
2. Mowgli Learns the Law of the Jungle: Under the guidance of Baloo, the bear, and Bagheera, the panther, Mowgli learns the “Law of the Jungle”. This is a critical moment, pointing out the importance of knowledge, education, and the rule of law in the jungle. Mowgli’s learning process highlights his integration into the animal world and the values of respect, order, and survival. It also showcases the mentorship roles of Baloo and Bagheera.
3. Bagheera, Baloo, and Kaa Rescue Mowgli from the Bandar-log: Mowgli is kidnapped by the Bandar-log (monkey people) and taken to the Cold Lairs. Baloo and Bagheera enlist the help of Kaa, the python, to rescue him. This moment is significant because it demonstrates the strength of friendship and alliances in the jungle. It shows the dangers Mowgli faces and the lengths his friends will go to protect him.
4. Mowgli Uses the “Red Flower”: Mowgli discovers the power of fire, referred to as the “Red Flower.” He uses it to drive away Shere Khan and assert his dominance. This is a turning point in the story, symbolizing Mowgli’s transition from a boy of the jungle to a figure of power and control. Fire represents human innovation and the ability to wield great power.
5. Mowgli Leaves the Jungle: Realizing that he cannot remain with the wolves forever, Mowgli decides to leave the jungle and rejoin human society. This moment marks a significant transition in Mowgli’s life, symbolizing his growth and acceptance of his dual identity. It underscores the theme of identity and belonging, as Mowgli acknowledges that he belongs to both the human and jungle worlds. This departure is also a rite of passage, indicating Mowgli’s maturation and independence.
6. Mowgli’s Final Confrontation with Shere Khan: In a dramatic showdown, Mowgli confronts and ultimately defeats Shere Khan, driving a herd to trample him in a ravine. This climactic moment is crucial as it symbolizes the end of Mowgli’s childhood fears and the assertion of his strength and intelligence.
7. Mowgli is Driven from the Village: After returning to the man-village, Mowgli is ultimately driven out by the villagers who fear and misunderstand him. This moment is key as it highlights the theme of alienation and the challenges Mowgli faces in reconciling his dual identity.
8. Kotick Finds an Island for His Seal Colony (From “The White Seal”): Kotick, a white seal, embarks on a journey to find a haven for his seal colony and discovers an uninhabited island. This moment is significant as it symbolizes perseverance, exploration, and the quest for a better life. Kotick’s journey and discovery highlight themes of leadership, determination, and the protection of one’s community.
9. Rikki-Tikki-Tavi Lures Nagaina Away and Kills Her (From “Rikki-Tikki-Tavi”): Rikki-Tikki-Tavi, the mongoose, lures the cobra Nagaina away from biting the boy, Teddy, and pursues her into her den, where he kills her. This moment is crucial as it showcases the bravery and cunning of Rikki-Tikki-Tavi. It emphasizes the theme of heroism and the protection of the innocent. The defeat of Nagaina also represents the triumph of good over evil and the restoration of safety in the household.
10. Toomai Witnesses the Elephant Dance (From “Toomai of the Elephants”): Toomai, a young elephant handler, witnesses the secret dance of the elephants, a rare and mystical event. This moment is significant as it symbolizes the deep connection between humans and animals. It highlights the themes of wonder, discovery, and the mystical aspects of nature.

Writing Style, Tone and Figurative Use

Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book” employs a narrative style that is both straightforward and richly descriptive. Kipling blends elements of fable and adventure, creating a text accessible to younger readers while offering deeper layers of meaning for adults. The stories are episodic, each with its plot but interconnected through recurring characters and themes.

Kipling’s integration of poetry in the book serves multiple purposes, enriching the narrative, reinforcing themes, and adding rhythmic and lyrical dimensions to the prose. The poems provide insights into characters, articulate the laws and philosophies of the jungle, and create a musicality that enhances the storytelling. With techniques like parallelism and repetition, he achieves a musical and captivating rhythmic style. Through this seamless blend of poetry and prose, Kipling elevates the text, making it a rich work that pleases a reader’s literary palette in several aspects.

The narrative often includes direct addresses to the reader, which creates a sense of intimacy and engagement. Descriptive passages vividly bring the jungle to life, with detailed depictions of its lush landscapes and diverse inhabitants.

The tone of “The Jungle Book” blends wonder, seriousness, and didacticism. Kipling strikes a balance between the magical allure of the jungle and the harsh realities of survival within it. The narrative does not stop depicting the brutality of the jungle, as seen in the constant threats Mowgli faces from Shere Khan and even the Bandar Log. Kipling’s didactic tone is evident in the lessons imparted through the characters’ experiences. The “Law of the Jungle” is a recurring motif, embodying respect, order, and justice principles.

Kipling’s use of figurative language enriches the text, adding depth and vividness to the narrative. Metaphors are frequently used to describe the jungle and its inhabitants. For instance, the jungle is often depicted as a living entity, a “green cathedral,” suggesting its sacred and majestic nature. Personification is another key device, particularly in the portrayal of animals. Kipling gives the animals distinct personalities and voices, attributing human qualities. This personification fosters relatability. For example, Baloo the bear is depicted as a wise and gentle teacher, embodying traits of patience and kindness.

Symbols

Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book” is rich with symbolism, using various characters, objects, and settings to convey deeper meanings and themes. Here are some key symbols in the book:

The Council Rock

In the Mowgli stories, the Council Rock is a significant symbol representing various aspects of jungle life and governance. It is where the wolf pack gathers to make important decisions, and it carries deep symbolic meaning in the story’s context. The Council Rock symbolizes the rule of law and the structured governance of the Seeonee Wolf Pack. The Council Rock symbolizes authority and leadership, the site where Akela presided over meetings. It is also a symbol of community and tradition. It is a place where traditions are upheld and passed down through generations. It is also where disputes are resolved, and decisions regarding the fate of individuals, such as the acceptance of Mowgli into the pack or the fate of those who challenge the law, are made.

The Jungle

The jungle represents the complexity and beauty of the natural world. It is a place teeming with life, from the smallest insects to the largest predators. This diversity mirrors nature’s richness and interconnectedness, showcasing the ecosystem’s balance and harmony. The jungle is also a microcosm of life, filled with beauty and danger. It represents the natural world’s cycle of life and death, growth and decay, illustrating life’s constant ebb and flow.

For characters like Mowgli and Bagheera, the jungle symbolizes freedom and wildness. It is a place where they can live according to their own rules, unencumbered by the constraints of human society. The jungle’s vastness and untamed nature provide a backdrop for Mowgli’s adventures and personal growth. This aspect of the jungle highlights the theme of individual freedom and the importance of living in harmony with one’s environment.

Despite its wildness, the jungle operates under its own rules known as the “Law of the Jungle.” These laws govern the behavior of the animals and maintain order within the jungle. The Law of the Jungle symbolizes the necessity of rules and structure, even in the most untamed environments.

Shere Khan’s Pelt

Shere Khan, the tiger, symbolizes fear and power within the jungle. His pelt represents his dominance and the terror he instills in other animals. The presence of his pelt serves as a reminder of the power he once wielded and the fear he evoked. The acquisition of Shere Khan’s pelt symbolizes Mowgli’s triumph over his nemesis. It marks the culmination of Mowgli’s journey and his successful confrontation with the tiger who had threatened his life since infancy. Defeating Shere Khan and claiming his pelt signifies a rite of passage for Mowgli. It marks his transition from a vulnerable child to a powerful, self-reliant individual.

Fire (the Red Flower)

In “The Jungle Book“, fire, often called the “Red Flower,” is a powerful symbol with multiple layers of meaning. Fire represents immense power and the ability to control the environment. In the jungle, the animals fear it because of its destructive potential. For humans, it symbolizes the technological advancement and the power they wield over nature. Mowgli’s ability to use fire sets him apart from the animals, showcasing the unique power humans possess. Fire is often associated with civilization and human progress. The animals’ fear and awe of the “Red Flower” recognizes the boundary between the natural world and human civilization. Mowgli’s mastery of fire symbolizes his connection to human society and its achievements despite his upbringing in the wild.

Bagheera’s Scar

Bagheera’s scar, which he acquired from the chain that bound him in captivity, symbolizes his past life of confinement and his eventual escape to freedom. It represents the struggle for freedom and the enduring impact of past experiences on one’s identity. The scar signifies the wisdom and experience he has gained through his hardships. This background provides him with the insight and strength to mentor and protect Mowgli, guiding him through the difficulties of jungle life.

Bagheera’s scar also symbolizes the hidden depths and complexities of his character. On the surface, he appears as a sleek, powerful, and composed panther, but the scar reveals a history of suffering and resilience. This duality highlights that appearances can be deceiving, and even the most formidable beings have vulnerabilities and stories of struggle.

Personal Perspective

While there are many aspects of “The Jungle Book” I like, I’m most impressed with its characterization. Sure, the plot is unique and exciting, and Kipling imbues the jungle with life and color with his vivid imagery. However, he creates distinct and tangible shades of personalities through a quirk of mannerism or a line of talk with such precise effect that you can immediately tell who is bold, boorish, silly, or sinister. When these characters interact, their differences generate enough tension to move the story forward without the need for contrived plot twists. I reread the stories to revisit these memorable characters.