by D. Victor

Created on: August 07, 2008

Described as the "dominant spirit" of the enchanted Sleepy Hollow region, the Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow is the legend that forms the title of this story. The legend itself is the subject of speculation. However, it is generally thought to be the ghost of a Hessian trooper, beheaded by a cannon ball. This spectre roams at nice, spotted at various points in the valley. The assumption is that he looks for his head before returning to his burial spot before dawn.

With the backdrop of the story well-laid out, the main character, Ichabod Crane is introduced. A native of Connecticut is he, who happens to have a gangly, awkward appearance, which matches that of the bird that bears his surname. Ichabod is the new schoolmaster. He is painted as a strict disciplinarian who is somewhat discriminate with his disciplinary method the birch.

The author firmly establishes Mr. Crane as popular with the female circle in Sleepy Hollow, by virtue of his erudite appearance and perceived superior tastes. He is inclined to swap tales with the Dutch wives. They would speak of the galloping headless horseman and he would respond with his own ghoulish tales. These tales have an effect on Ichabod when it is time for him to trek home at night. The author establishes his propensity to imagine all sorts of shapes and figures at these moments.

Ichabod's peripheral musical talent lead him to meet another central figure in this story. Enter Katrina Van Tassel. At a youthful 18 years of age, she captured Ichabod's imagination. Being the daughter of a wealthy farmer didn't dim her glow in Mr. Crane's eyes either. By virtue of this, Katrina had numerous other admirers who kept a fierce eye on the competition. Competing for Katrina's attention is Brom Van Brunt, appropriately nicknamed Brom Bones. He is described as a dexterous horseman and mischievous soul. As both vie for Katrina's attention, a subtle feud and rivalry begins between them. Ichabod is careful to avoid confrontation with Brom due to size disparities.

Brom Bones and his gang begin to harass Ichabod indirectly, using small acts of vandalism and mischief to that end. This went on for some time, without having any "material effect". The next major event is Ichabod's invitation to a frolic at the Van Tassel's. Ichabod is primed for this and even borrows a horse to impress. The redoubtable Brom Bones makes a grander entrance on his favourite steed, Daredevil. However, our main character repossesses the spotlight with his dancing.

Later

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