Who Brom Bones is
Brom Bones is a confident local figure, known for his strength, boldness and good humor. He has broad shoulders and curly black hair, and his skill on horseback helps establish his reputation.
He rides a horse called Daredevil and leads a band of rowdy young men. Their nighttime galloping makes people say that the valley's legendary Hessian ghost must have passed.
What Brom Bones wants
Brom wants Katrina Van Tassel for himself, so Ichabod's visits make the schoolmaster his rival. He turns to practical jokes because Ichabod would never accept a challenge to fight.
He blocks the schoolhouse chimney, disrupts the classroom at night and teaches a dog to mock a singing lesson. These tricks show his taste for mischief, but they do not stop Ichabod from visiting Katrina.
Brom Bones and the others in the story
Brom's confidence contrasts with Ichabod's fearfulness, making their rivalry a contest between a local hero and an outsider. Katrina watches the competition without giving a clear sign of her feelings.
At the Van Tassel party, Brom tells a story about racing the Headless Horseman toward the bridge. His tale brings his boastful confidence into the same conversation as the valley's ghost stories.
Questions
What is Brom Bones' real name?
Brom Bones' full name is Abraham Van Brunt.
Why does Brom Bones dislike Ichabod Crane?
Ichabod courts Katrina Van Tassel, whom Brom wants for himself. Brom tries to make his rival look foolish through pranks.
