Final answer:
The mood during John Thornton's near-drowning experiences fluctuates from terror and despair to a surreal sense of comfort and resignation in the face of death, marked by some characters' grim acceptance and frustration at their fate.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mood when John Thornton almost drowned can be described as a blend of fatalistic acceptance and eerie tranquility, juxtaposed with moments of fear and anxiety. Characters faced with the prospect of drowning often experienced a mixture of emotions, ranging from terror to bizarre comfort. For instance, one character sinking toward the bottom of the river found the idea of dying by hanging and drowning almost ludicrous, feeling strangely comfortable and detached from the idea of death. However, this acceptance is not universal, as other snippets reflect a sense of horror at the situation, with physical and mental distress being prominently depicted.
Moreover, the feeling of resignation is frequently noted, as characters contemplated their potential demise with a profound sadness and frustration. The mood swings from an initial struggle for survival to a grim acceptance of the inevitability of death, whenever escape seems unlikely. This acceptance of fate is often tinged with anger at the apparent absurdity and unjust nature of their situation, as illustrated by the internal monologues questioning the whims of fate.