In five pages this story is analyzed in terms of author Washington Irving's intentions, plot, protagonist Ichabod Crane, theme, use of imagery and other relevant literary considerations. There are no other sources listed in the bibliography.
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to keep the reader glued to the page. Washington Irving is a prolific writer who seems to strive to create images and in the legend he tells, he creates an
aura that is remarkably chilling. The legend can be summed up by one line in the story: "The dominant spirit, however, that haunts this enchanted region, and seems to be
commander-in-chief of all the powers of the air, is the apparition of a figure on horseback, without a head" (Irving PG). As with any story involving the supernatural, the objective
of the work seems to be to frighten the general public. And in that, Irving succeeds. A student writing on this subject may want to point out that one does
not have to be frightened while reading, but the suggestion put in the mind of the audience is something that they will carry with them throughout the day. They may
look over their shoulder or think they hear a noise when they cross a bridge on a quiet night. Certainly, Legend accomplishes this. Yet, in looking to tone, one is
seemingly confronted with a dual attitude as the writer seems serious at times, but satirical at others. This makes one also question the intent of the writer. Might he have
an agenda hidden under the ghost story? At the same time, this is a classic supernatural tale that many still enjoy today. Its timelessness attests to the fact that it
is something that is intended to be embraced as nothing more than an unearthly tale. The plot is beautifully simple, something that great stories rely upon. Subplots and entanglements--though
sometimes found in great works--can serve to confuse and take away from the story line. Here, Irving carves out a memorable plot that has the reader on edge. Yet, the