Washingtom Irving's "Rip Van Winkle" is an excellent piece of Romantic literature. The main character, for whom the story was named, makes it even more so. Rip's original personality and actions are outstanding. He potrays a Romantic hero extremely well.
Rip Van Winkle's home says a lot about him. He resides in a uaint colonial village nestled among the mystical Kaatskill Mountains. Rip's house is old and worn. His fields are unkempt and overgrown. In other words, Rip is no work and all play.
A carefree spirit is an important Romantic trait. When Rip should be tending to those unkempt crops, he is playing with the neighborhood children. He makes them toys and teaches hem to fly kites. The kids also enjoy the stories Rip tells them. He is definitely a child at heart.
Like many other Romantic heros, Rip Van Winkle is uneasy with women.
Life size bronze of Rip Van Winkle sculpted by Ric...
Jefferson as the old Rip Van Winkle, 1896
English: Title page of the book The Sketch Book of...Perhaps his abusive wife is to blame for this. At times, Rip is forced to escape her relentless nagging. He would disappear into the woods, taking only his gun and his best pal, a dog called Wolf. For hours, they enjoy the srenity that nature has to offer.
Rip Van Winkle truly does possess an abundance of characteristics of a Romantic hero.His imperfections shine; he is carefree and irresponsible. Even so, perhaps everyone should try to be more like Rip Van Winkle.
Old Rip Van Winkle
Rip's Rock, Rip Van Winkle House, by J. Loeffler
Rip's Rock, Rip Van Winkle House, by J. Loeffler