Pilgrim's Progress
Chapter 11
Describe how the pilgrims react as they face crossing the river. Contrast Christian’s crossing with Hopeful’s crossing.
Describe how the pilgrims react as they face crossing the river. Contrast Christian’s crossing with Hopeful’s crossing.
The river is the boundary between life and death, and every pilgrim must cross it in order to enter into eternal life. They are quite frightened of the prospect of crossing the river, but eventually they are delivered from their fears, and the ford the river, the depth of which is determined by one's faith. They emerge from the river and are given immortal garments, after which they begin their final ascent.
http://www.gradesaver.com/pilgrims-progress/study-guide/summary-part-i-section-v