Turgenev uses imagery of the wild as opposed to the domestic to portray the differences between Arkady and Bazarov. Katya describes one as being a wild beast, as opposed to the other.... a domestic animal. Bazarov frequently appears to be matted in mud, willing to get dirty in the name of science. As a result, Pavel dislikes him. Arkady, however, is described as a domestic animal.... happy with the way things are and content to stay within his given boundaries.
Fathers and Sons