Learn: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow

Who is Ichabod Crane?

A tall, thin schoolteacher who is superstitious, enjoys ghost stories, and hopes to improve his life.

What is Sleepy Hollow?

A quiet, isolated valley known for its strange atmosphere, ghost stories, and supernatural legends.

Who is Katrina Van Tassel?

A beautiful young woman whose father is a wealthy farmer, making her attractive to Ichabod.

Who is Brom Bones?

A strong, confident, popular local man who becomes Ichabod's rival for Katrina's attention.

Who is Baltus Van Tassel?

Katrina's wealthy father, known for owning a successful farm with plenty of food and property.

What makes Ichabod's appearance unusual?

He is extremely tall and thin, with long limbs and exaggerated features that make him look awkward.

What is Ichabod's job?

He is a schoolteacher who earns his living by teaching children in the local community.

Why does Ichabod stay with different local families?

He receives food and a place to sleep in exchange for helping families with chores.

What is Ichabod's personality like?

He is imaginative, ambitious, superstitious, and easily frightened by supernatural stories.

What is Brom Bones's personality like?

He is bold, mischievous, competitive, and known for playing practical jokes.

Why is Katrina important to the story?

She becomes the center of the rivalry between Ichabod and Brom.

Why is Ichabod interested in Katrina?

He is attracted to her beauty and imagines enjoying her family's wealth and comfortable lifestyle.

How is Brom different from Ichabod?

Brom is strong and confident, while Ichabod is thin, awkward, and usually avoids confrontation.

What is the Headless Horseman?

A legendary ghost said to be the spirit of a Hessian soldier who lost his head during battle.

Why do people believe in supernatural stories in Sleepy Hollow?

The valley has a long tradition of ghost stories, and its isolated, mysterious atmosphere encourages these beliefs.

How does the setting affect Ichabod?

The valley's ghost stories and mysterious atmosphere increase his fear and imagination.

What role does nature play in the story?

The quiet countryside, woods, and dark surroundings help create a mysterious and sometimes frightening mood.

Why is Ichabod easily frightened?

His strong imagination and belief in supernatural legends make ordinary sounds and shadows seem frightening.

What creates the main conflict between Ichabod and Brom?

Both men are interested in Katrina, causing jealousy and competition.

How does Washington Irving use humor in the story?

He exaggerates Ichabod's appearance and behavior and contrasts his nervousness with Brom's confidence.