What does Krakauer think actually killed Chris? In Jon Krakauer’s “Into the Wild,” the author delves into the mysterious death of Christopher McCandless, a young man who embarked on a journey of self-discovery in the Alaskan wilderness. Krakauer presents a compelling argument that examines various factors that contributed to McCandless’s demise, ultimately leaving readers questioning the true cause of his tragic end.
The narrative of “Into the Wild” reveals that McCandless, also known as Alexander Supertramp, embarked on a journey to find freedom and escape the confines of modern society. However, his journey took a tragic turn when he became stranded in the Alaskan wilderness. Krakauer, through his meticulous research and interviews with those who knew McCandless, attempts to unravel the mysteries surrounding his death.
One of the primary theories proposed by Krakauer is that malnutrition played a significant role in McCandless’s death. He argues that McCandless’s lack of knowledge about survival techniques, combined with his determination to live off the land, led to his eventual starvation. Krakauer highlights the fact that McCandless had a history of anorexia, which may have weakened his body and made him more susceptible to the harsh conditions of the wilderness.
Another factor that Krakauer suggests contributed to McCandless’s death is his mental state. The author points out that McCandless’s desire to escape the materialistic world may have led to a breakdown in his mental health. Krakauer notes that McCandless became increasingly isolated and delusional during his time in the wilderness, which may have impaired his judgment and decision-making abilities.
Furthermore, Krakauer examines the potential role of hypothermia in McCandless’s death. He points out that the Alaskan winter was approaching, and McCandless was unprepared for the extreme cold. The author suggests that McCandless’s weakened state due to malnutrition and mental instability may have made him more vulnerable to the dangers of hypothermia.
While Krakauer presents these theories, he acknowledges that the true cause of McCandless’s death may never be fully understood. The author leaves readers with the notion that a combination of factors, including malnutrition, mental instability, and the harsh conditions of the wilderness, ultimately led to Chris’s demise.
In conclusion, what does Krakauer think actually killed Chris? While the author presents a compelling argument that examines various factors, it is clear that the true cause of McCandless’s death remains a mystery. “Into the Wild” serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of pursuing an idealistic vision of freedom, and the fragility of the human spirit in the face of nature’s unforgiving elements.
