Ichabod Crane is described in Washington Irving's "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" as a lean and lanky schoolmaster who has come to the small Dutch settlement of Sleepy Hollow to teach. He is described as awkward and unattractive, with a long nose, bony arms and legs, and a skinny neck. Despite his appearance, Ichabod is portrayed as a man of great ambition who aspires to rise in society and win the heart of the wealthy and beautiful Katrina Van Tassel. Irving's overall tone toward his protagonist is mocking and satirical. Throughout the story, Ichabod's vanity, greed, and cowardice are depicted in a humorous and exaggerated manner, making him a somewhat comical figure. At the same time, Irving hints at a deeper sadness in Ichabod's life, portraying him as a lonely and isolated figure who is frequently looked down upon by the Sleepy Hollow residents. Overall, Irving's attitude toward Ichabod Crane is one of gentle satire and playful mockery, with a hint of sympathy for the character's flaws and shortcomings. …show more content…
Known for their efficiency and brutal tactics, Hessian soldiers were widely feared by American colonists during the war. This backstory for the Horseman in "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" may have been chosen by Washington Irving because the figure of a ghostly Hessian soldier would have held a great deal of cultural significance and fear for his contemporary readers. The Hessian soldiers were well-known, and their reputation as ruthless warriors would have added to Sleepy Hollow's mysterious and frightening atmosphere. Furthermore, the use of a historical figure, such as the Hessian soldier, may have added realism to the story, making it appear more credible and grounded in historical