Folktale and "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow"

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the life of Irving Washington, author of "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" and gives an analysis of the folktale. It shows how Washington takes two opposite characters, Ichabod Crane and his destiny, Brom Bones and gives them both the same desire. It looks at how his use of literature and style in this story adds an essence, which cannot be explained and how the plot, narrator and characters, all enhance the theme.

From the Paper:

"In The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Irving Washington has written a folktale, which takes place in Tarrytown, New York, in which Washington's tone is humorous. The main characters are Ichabod Crane, Katrina Van Tassel and Brom Bones. The main theme was about a teacher named Ichabod Crane. The two main characters of "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," Ichabod Crane and his destiny, Brom Bones, are often assumed to be figures of American folklore. However, they are Irving's original creations. Ichabod Crane's elements have been enhanced by his ungainliness, while Brom Bones are in broader strokes, conveying an impression of energy and strength. Washington's literary technique produces a sharply drawn portrait on the one hand and a catalog of personal qualities on the other. While being introduced in the story, Ichabod Crane is lording over his pupils, accommodating the rustic families that take him in, showing off his singing talents and education for impressionable ladies, and trading superstitious tales with the local gossips."

More papers on Folktale and "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow":

• Book Review # 132703 : "Case Study of "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow"
• Analytical Essay # 35071 : "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow"
• Analytical Essay # 49364 : "Washington Irving"

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