Character and Themes in Jon Krakauer's 'Into the Wild'

In a well-developed essay, leaning on the attached rubric, choose ONE of the following prompts to explore.

 1. Analyze the character of Christopher McCandless in Jon Krakauer's "Into the Wild." Discuss the motivations behind his journey into the Alaskan wilderness and how they reflect the themes of idealism, escapism, and the search for identity. Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis.

2. "Into the Wild" presents a complex view of nature and its role in human life. Compare and contrast the differing perspectives on nature presented by Christopher McCandless and the other individuals he encounters on his travels. How do these perspectives inform the overall message of the book?

3. The concept of 'wilderness' is central to Jon Krakauer's "Into the Wild." Examine how the book challenges or reinforces the romantic notion of the wilderness as a place of purity and simplicity. Discuss how McCandless's experiences in the wild contribute to a deeper understanding of the wilderness and its place in American culture and identity.