Who Hannah Thornton is
Hannah Thornton is a stern widow who rules the house beside her son's mill in Milton. Her husband's death leaves the family in want, and she raises John and his sister Fanny. She believes that hard effort makes character, a conviction reflected in John's pride in earning his way.
Hannah Thornton and the others in the story
Hannah wants John to marry well and is wary of Margaret Hale from the start. She sees Margaret as a southern girl with a high opinion of herself, rather than welcoming her son's interest.
At dinner in the Thornton house, Hannah treats Margaret politely but coldly, and Margaret feels judged. Their encounter brings the households' differences into view, with suspicion and pride shaping how they see each other.
Questions
Who is Hannah Thornton?
Hannah Thornton is the mother of John and Fanny Thornton and the stern presence ruling their Milton household.
Why does Hannah Thornton distrust Margaret Hale?
She distrusts Margaret's southern airs and high opinion of herself, and she wants her son to marry well.
How does Hannah Thornton influence John?
She teaches him to work and save while raising the family through hardship. Her belief in effort helps explain the values he brings to his business.