On their midterm exam, my American Literature students were asked to discuss the importance of legends in Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Here are some of my favorite answers:

  • The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is a fear story about a headless houseman.
  • When we read the story, there are many difficult words for us to understand. Also, it is sometimes boring to us. So I think it is really important for us to know the legends in this novel.
  • I think it is very perfect to show us a legend who was cool and handsome.
  • All in all, it is a horrible story and the legends can bring a horrible atmosphere.
  • Nobody can know if it is true or fause.
  • It tells people about life, liberty and the persuit of happiness.
  • In conclusion, we should face to life with a correct and good attitude.
  • By the article, the people could see the human weaknesses directly. It used the sarcasm language.