The Legend of Sleepy Hollow: Reading Comprehension and Analysis
A Grade 8 ELA worksheet focusing on reading comprehension, character analysis, and literary devices in Washington Irving's 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow'.
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The Legend of Sleepy Hollow: Reading Comprehension and Analysis
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Read the excerpt from 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow' below and answer the questions that follow. Pay close attention to character descriptions, setting, and plot details.
From the listless repose of the place, and the peculiar character of its inhabitants, who are descendants from the original Dutch settlers, this sequestered glen has long been known by the name of SLEEPY HOLLOW, and its rustic lads are called the Sleepy Hollow Boys throughout all the neighboring country. A drowsy, dreamy influence seems to hang over the land, and to pervade the very atmosphere. Some say that the place was bewitched by a High German doctor, during the early days of the settlement; others, that an old Indian chief, the prophet or wizard of his tribe, held his powwows there before the country was discovered by Master Hendrick Hudson. Certain it is, the place still continues under the sway of some witching power, that holds a spell over the minds of the good people, causing them to walk in a continual reverie. They are given to all kinds of marvelous beliefs; are subject to trances and visions; and frequently see strange sights, and hear strange voices, and dream strange dreams. They are a race prone to believe in signs and omens, and to ponder over tales of legendary terror.
1. What is the primary reason the glen is called 'Sleepy Hollow'?
It is a popular place for sleeping.
A drowsy, dreamy influence hangs over the land.
The inhabitants are always tired.
It is a very quiet and peaceful place.
2. What is one characteristic of the inhabitants of Sleepy Hollow?
They are practical and logical.
They are skeptical of supernatural tales.
They are prone to marvelous beliefs and visions.
They are recent immigrants to the area.
3. The inhabitants of Sleepy Hollow are descendants from the original settlers.
4. The people of Sleepy Hollow are prone to believe in and omens.
5. According to the excerpt, what are two possible explanations for the 'witching power' that hangs over Sleepy Hollow?
6. The Sleepy Hollow Boys are known for their lively and energetic nature.
True
False
7. Analyze how Washington Irving uses descriptive language in this excerpt to establish the mood and atmosphere of Sleepy Hollow. Provide specific examples from the text to support your analysis.