Washington Irving
Washington Irving (1783-1859) was an American author, essayist, and historian, often called the 'father of the American short story.' One of the first American writers to win international acclaim, his witty, atmospheric tales helped establish a distinctly American literature.
He is best remembered for two classic short stories, both set in the Dutch communities of New York's Hudson Valley: 'Rip Van Winkle,' about a man who sleeps for twenty years, and 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,' with its terrifying Headless Horseman. These appeared in The Sketch Book, alongside other essays and tales. Irving also wrote popular biographies and histories, including a life of Christopher Columbus.
A genial, much-travelled man who spent years in Europe, Irving blended folklore, humour, and gentle satire, and his stories remain some of the most beloved in American literature.
Our editions present his tales clearly for modern readers. Read a story free, and read or listen with a membership.
Washington Irving in the library · 4 works
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The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
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Audiobooks by Washington Irving
Every Washington Irving title in the library is also a complete, professionally produced audiobook — 4 audiobooks in total. Members listen free on any device. Browse the audiobook library →
Frequently asked questions about Washington Irving
What did Washington Irving write?
Irving is most famous for the short stories 'Rip Van Winkle' and 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,' both collected in The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon. He also wrote humorous history (A History of New York), biographies of Columbus and George Washington, and travel writing about Spain, including Tales of the Alhambra. His two classic tales are his best-loved works.
What is 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow' about?
It tells of Ichabod Crane, a lanky, superstitious schoolmaster in a sleepy Dutch village, who is terrorised — and possibly carried off — by the ghostly Headless Horseman on a moonlit night. A blend of comedy, romance, and spine-tingling folklore, it is one of the most famous American ghost stories. Its Headless Horseman has become an enduring icon of Halloween.
What is 'Rip Van Winkle' about?
'Rip Van Winkle' tells of a good-natured, idle villager who wanders into the mountains, drinks a mysterious brew with strange little men, and falls asleep — waking twenty years later to find the American Revolution has come and gone and everyone he knew has changed. It is a charming, gently comic tale about time, change, and escaping the pressures of daily life. It has become an American folk classic.
Where should I start with Washington Irving?
'Rip Van Winkle' and 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow' are the perfect starting points — short, entertaining, and his most famous works. Both are quick reads full of humour and atmosphere. They're the ideal introduction to his storytelling.
Why is Washington Irving important?
Irving was one of the first American authors to achieve international fame and to prove that American subjects and folklore could produce great literature. He helped establish the short story as a form and created enduring American myths. He is often called the father of the American short story.
When did Washington Irving live?
Irving lived from 1783 to 1859. He published The Sketch Book, containing 'Rip Van Winkle' and 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,' in 1819-1820. He spent many years in Europe, including as a diplomat in Spain, and became America's first internationally celebrated author.
Where can I read Washington Irving for free?
Irving's works are in the public domain and freely available. Older editions keep the original text. Here you can read a story free in clear modern English, and read or listen with a membership.
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