Rip Van Winkle

Front

What does Dame Van Winkle symbolize in the story?

Back

Dame Van Winkle symbolizes the overbearing control of Great Britain's King George III over the American colonies.

Front

What term describes a husband who is constantly nagged by his wife?

Back

The term is 'hen-pecked'.

Front

Who are the ghosts of the men that Rip encounters in the woods?

Back

The men are the ghosts of Henry Hudson.

Front

What type of clothing did the strange men in the woods wear?

Back

The strange men wore Dutch clothing.

Front

What statue replaced King George when Rip returned to the village?

Back

The statue of George Washington replaced King George.

Front

What is the significance of Rip's long sleep in the story?

Back

Rip's long sleep represents a transformation and the passage of time, reflecting the changes in society and governance.

Front

How does Rip's character reflect the theme of escapism?

Back

Rip's desire to escape his responsibilities and the nagging of his wife illustrates the theme of escapism.

Front

What does the character of Rip Van Winkle represent in American literature?

Back

Rip Van Winkle represents the American spirit of independence and the desire for freedom from oppressive authority.

Front

What historical context is important to understand Rip Van Winkle?

Back

The story is set during the American Revolutionary War, highlighting the transition from British rule to American independence.

Front

How does Washington Irving use irony in Rip Van Winkle's story?

Back

Irony is used in Rip's return to find that he is celebrated as a hero for being absent during the revolution, despite his initial cowardice.