In "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," Washington Irving draws a Romantic contrast between Farmer Van Tassel and Ichabod Crane primarily through their physical appearances, personalities, and social standing.
Farmer Van Tassel embodies the ideal of the Romantic hero in a more traditional, grounded sense. He is described as a well-fed, prosperous, and content farmer who represents the good nature of rural America. Van Tassel's character reflects stability, community values, and a connection to the land, which are all highly regarded in Romantic literature. He is a figure of authority and respect in Sleepy Hollow, and his home is a symbol of abundance and hospitality.
In contrast, Ichabod Crane is portrayed as a somewhat gaunt and awkward figure, characterized by his lanky build and peculiar habits. He is a schoolteacher who is more interested in social climbing and the wealth possessed by others, particularly that of Van Tassel and his daughter, Katrina. Ichabod's aspirations and insecurities highlight a more restless and ambitious spirit, which is typical of Romantic protagonists, but also make him appear somewhat superficial and unrooted in the traditional values that Van Tassel embodies.
The tension between the two characters underscores a broader Romantic theme of the conflict between nature and civilization, as well as the differences between genuine character and superficial ambition. While Van Tassel is a symbol of the grounded, generous, and nature-connected lifestyle, Ichabod represents the emerging modern individual who is often disconnected from those values, leading to a sense of alienation and anxiety that is explored throughout the story.
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