Discuss the “two sides” of Mrs. Hornbee in George Washington's Socks.

The character of Mrs. Hornbee in George Washington's Socks presents readers with a series of contradictions. On the one hand, Mrs. Hornsbee suspects that Matt is a spy, and she makes him leave the farm. Yet, on the other hand, Mrs. Hornsbee listens to Matt and gives him warm clothing when he leaves the farm. This demonstrates her generosity and empathy.
Elvira Woodruff depicts the "two sides" of Mrs. Hornsbee in order to add complexity to her characterization. Mrs. Hornsbee is not represented as a villain, and yet she is not heroic, either. The character of Mrs. Hornsbee should be contrasted with that of Mr. Hornsbee, who is arguably more compassionate than his wife. Mrs. Hornsbee reminds Matt of his teacher. This suggests that her qualities of character are not entirely historically specific and that people from different historical eras can share traits.