Student Question
What does the metaphor about Ichabod's mind suggest about him? How do Ichabod and Brom, as well as their horses, compare?
Quick answer:
The metaphor about Ichabod's mind suggests he is preoccupied with food and romance, viewing life through a lens of appetite and desire. Ichabod, depicted as tall, thin, and comical, rides a decrepit horse named Gunpowder, reflecting his awkwardness. In contrast, Brom is portrayed as robust and athletic, riding a spirited horse named Daredevil, symbolizing his bold and reckless nature. This comparison highlights their contrasting personalities and social standings.
Ichabod is surveying the abundant crops as he journeys to the Van Tassel's party, and his thoughts wander to the delicacies which might be served there, and pretty Katrina who will serve them. The author sticks with the metaphor of feeding in describing Ichabod's anticipation of both good food and the attention of the lovely lady.
Ichabod, who is tall and extremely thin, with a small head and big ears, strikes a comic figure plodding along on his horse Gunpowder, who is "broken down...gaunt and shagged...(with) one eye, glaring and spectral". This is in contrast with Brom, "burly...broad-shouldered, with short curly black hair", who tears about recklessly on "his favorite steed Daredevil...full of mettle and mischief".
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