47 pages • 1 hour read
The Story of Doctor Dolittle
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Symbols & Motifs
The Pushmi-Pullyu
Content Warning: This section of the guide describes and discusses the source text’s treatment of colonialist attitudes, which it portrays in a positive light, and its outdated and offensive depictions of Indigenous Africans, which rely on racist stereotypes.
The Pushmi-Pullyu, a two-headed animal gifted to Doctor Dolittle, symbolizes the wonders and mysteries of the natural world that, Lofting suggests, remain unexplored and misunderstood by humans. This rare creature, which no foreign man has ever seen, represents discovery and the value of biodiversity. The Pushmi-Pullyu’s unique appearance and behavior challenge the conventional understanding of nature, prompting readers to appreciate the diversity and complexity of the animal kingdom.
In the narrative, the Pushmi-Pullyu serves as a symbol of Doctor Dolittle’s success and the respect he earns from animals. Its rarity and the reverence it commands from other animals emphasize the harmony that can exist between humans and animals when there is mutual understanding and respect. The Pushmi-Pullyu’s willingness to accompany Dolittle on his adventures signifies trust and the bridging of the gap between human and animal worlds. The Pushmi-Pullyu enriches the story by embodying the themes of exploration, respect for nature, and the importance of biodiversity, encouraging readers to look beyond the familiar and appreciate the extraordinary aspects of the natural world.
The Pushmi-Pullyu also serves as a critique of the commodification of the “exotic.” The plan to exhibit the Pushmi-Pullyu to pay off debts introduces tension between economic necessity and ethical considerations, reflecting the broader theme of how human activities, particularly those driven by financial gain, can affect the natural world. The Pushmi-Pullyu’s rarity makes it a valuable commodity, emphasizing how exotic creatures are often exploited for their uniqueness. This aspect of the story underscores the moral ambiguities in Dolittle’s world, where even well-intentioned actions can lead to the commodification and exploitation. Through the Pushmi-Pullyu, the narrative critiques the practice of turning the wonders of nature into mere objects of economic value, reminding readers of the importance of ethical stewardship and the need to appreciate nature beyond its monetary worth.
The Ability to Talk to Animals
The recurring motif of Doctor Dolittle’s ability to communicate with animals lies at the heart of the narrative, supporting themes of empathy, understanding, and the breaking down of barriers. This unique skill allows Dolittle to form deeper connections with the animal world, highlighting the importance of listening and understanding diverse perspectives.
Throughout the story, Dolittle’s conversations with animals illustrate how communication bridges gaps between different species, promoting coexistence and cooperation. This motif highlights the broader theme of harmony between humans and nature, suggesting that empathy and understanding are essential for resolving conflicts and fostering mutual respect. Dolittle’s ability to talk to animals transforms his role from a mere observer of nature to an active participant in the animal kingdom, allowing him to advocate for and assist his animal friends more effectively.
This motif also underscores the narrative’s critique of anthropocentrism, challenging the notion that humans are superior to animals. By elevating the voices and experiences of animals, Dolittle’s interactions emphasize the notion that all creatures have intrinsic value and wisdom, undergirding the novel’s thematic interest in the Ethical Treatment of Animals. The ability to communicate with animals serves as a reminder of the potential for a more inclusive and compassionate world, where understanding and empathy transcend species boundaries. This recurring motif enriches the story, reinforcing its themes of mutual respect and the interconnectedness of all life forms.
The Voyage
The motif of the journey is a crucial element in The Story of Doctor Dolittle, reflecting themes of Adventure and Exploration, self-discovery, and transformation. Doctor Dolittle’s travels, particularly his voyage to Africa, serve as a physical manifestation of his inner journey toward greater knowledge and compassion. The motif of the journey also highlights the challenges and growth that come with venturing into the unknown, both geographically and intellectually.
Within Lofting’s tale, Dolittle’s voyage to Africa becomes not merely a geographical expedition but a quest for deeper understanding and empathy. Each encounter and obstacle he faces along the way contributes to his personal growth, broadening his perspective and enhancing his connection with the animal world. The journey tests Dolittle’s resilience and adaptability, illustrating that the path to wisdom is often fraught with difficulties and uncertainties.
Additionally, the journey motif underscores the transformative power of exploration. Through his travels, Dolittle evolves from a reclusive figure into a compassionate hero who embraces his role and responsibilities. His experiences abroad make him more aware of the interconnectedness of all life forms and the importance of ethical stewardship. This transformation reflects the narrative’s broader message that true wisdom and empathy are gained through experience and a willingness to step beyond one’s comfort zone.
The journey motif also serves to contrast the familiar with the extraordinary, emphasizing the richness and diversity of the world beyond one’s immediate surroundings. The world Lofting builds includes both known animal species and invented ones, such as the pushmi-pullyu, highlighting the fantastical nature of discovery and the importance of respect and care within that context. Dolittle’s adventures highlight the value of curiosity and the rewards of embracing new experiences and cultures. Ultimately, the motif of the voyage reinforces the idea that personal and intellectual growth come from exploring and understanding the wider world, making it a central theme in the narrative.
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