What tragic fate befalls John Thornton?

John Thornton's tragic fate is that he is killed by Yeehat Indians. This event is significant in the story as it represents the loss of a deep bond and safety that Buck has found with Thornton, who is portrayed as a compassionate and skilled master. Thornton represents the pinnacle of kindness and loyalty in Buck's life, and his death is a pivotal moment that propels Buck further into his instinctual nature and the wild.

The attack by the Yeehat Indians symbolizes the unpredictable and often brutal nature of life in the wilderness, highlighting themes of survival and the harsh realities of the world that Buck must navigate. This event serves as a catalyst for Buck's transformation into his primal self, forcing him to rely on instincts honed from earlier hardships. The impact of Thornton’s death resonates throughout the story as it significantly shapes Buck's journey toward embracing his wild heritage.