'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow' Questions for Study and Discussion

"The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" is the story of Ichabod Crane, a schoolteacher who experiences strange events. Take a look at these questions for study and discussion.

• What is important about the title?
  
  
• What are the conflicts in "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow"? What types of conflict (physical, moral, intellectual, or emotional) do you see?
  
  
• How does Irving reveal character in "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow"?
  
  
• What are some themes in the story? How do they relate to the plot and characters?
  
  
• Is Ichabod Crane consistent in his actions? Is he a fully developed character? How? Why?
  
  
• Do you find the characters likable? Are the characters persons you would want to meet?
  
  
• Discuss some of the symbols in "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow."
  
  
• Compare "The Devil and Tom Walker" with "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow."
  
  
• What is the central/primary purpose of the story? Is the purpose important or meaningful?
  
  
• How essential is the setting to the story? Could the story have taken place anywhere else?
  
  
• What supernatural or surprising events are employed by Washington Irving? Are these happenings believable?
  
  
• What is the role of women in "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow"? Do women play a role?
• Does the story end the way you expected? How? Why?
  
  
• Would you recommend the story to a friend? Would you read other works by Washington Irving--based on your reading of this story?