How we cite our quotes: (Volume.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
"Th' stone were meant for thee; but thou wert sheltered behind a woman!" (1.22.48)
When Margaret gets hit in the head with a rock, the man who threw it is quick to point out that he wanted to hit John Thornton. Instead of apologizing, though, the guy uses this opportunity to insult John's masculinity by accusing him of hiding behind a woman.
Quote #8
"Are you become so helpless as to have to be defended by a girl?' asked Mrs. Thornton, scornfully." (1.23.13)
The man from the angry mob isn't the only one to question John Thornton's masculinity. His own mother is quick to pounce on him when she hears that Margaret Hale ran to his aid to protect him from the workers' mob. And as you can see, Mrs. Thornton doesn't think much of men who can't defend themselves.
Quote #9
It took up both his hands to carry it; and he had to pass through the busiest part of the town for feminine shopping. Many a young lady of his acquaintance turned to look after him, and thought it strange to see him occupied just like a porter or an errand-boy. (2.2.16)
John Thornton goes out to buy some fruit for Mrs. Hale when he hears that she is very ill. Instead of sending a servant to the market, though, he goes himself. This is strange for a man to be grocery shopping, but Mr. Thornton is too busy thinking of Mrs. Hale (and probably Margaret) to worry about appearing manly at this time.