Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” first appeared as part of the short story collection The Sketch Book, which was published in installments in 1819 and 1820. Set in the postcolonial town of Sleepy Hollow, New York, this classic comedy-horror tale is considered one of the first American short stories. The popularity of The Sketch Book garnered Irving international acclaim and cemented his status as a professional writer. Since its publication, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” has been adapted dozens of times for theater, television, and film, and the story remains a Halloween classic.

Summary

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Characters

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Literary Devices

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Deeper Study

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