Questions to Consider: “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”
Consider the framing device, in which the story is found among the papers of Diedrich Knickerbocker upon his death. Why might Irving have used this framing device? What impact does the postscript have on the story?
How are the residents of Sleepy Hollow described? What impact did the Revolutionary War have on this region? How does Irving use a description of the town to establish a mood?
How would you describe Ichabod Crane? What kind of person is he? How does he treat others, and why?
Do you spot examples of irony throughout “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”? What are they, and how do they contribute to the narrative?
How does Irving portray Crane’s appetite throughout the story? Why is this important?
Why does Irving reference Cotton Mather throughout the story?
What do you make of Katrina Van Tassel’s introduction? Why do you think she courts both Ichabod and Brom Bones?
Analyze the depiction of romance and courtship in “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” How does the story critique or satirize traditional gender roles and expectations?
Compare Ichabod Crane and Brom Bones. What role do greed and consumption play in their romantic rivalry? Why do you think they are courting her?
What do you make of the party scene at the Van Tassel castle? Think about the clothing, food, and social/racial hierarchy on display at the party.
Consider the war stories the older men embellish at the party. Why do you think Irving includes this scene? How does it relate to the story of the Headless Horseman?
What is the role of the postscript? What does it add to the story and your understanding of it?
Consider the names of the characters in the story: Ichabod Crane, Brom Bones, Katrina Van Tassel, and others.
In what ways is “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” a commentary on the social and cultural values of early 19th-century America?
In what ways is “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” an American gothic story? Is it a horror story?
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