American Renaisance

The American Renaissance, also known as the Antebellum period, took place in the mid-19th century. An American identity was found through the arts during this time. Many major literary works were produced. Washington Irving wrote The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, which was published in 1820. This is one of the earliest examples of American fiction, which gathered popularity.
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is a short story, and is considered to be a Romance. Romanticism valued emotions over reason. Romanticism was a new way of thinking that offered a different perspective. In his novel, Irving portrays the idea of the supernatural. A good versus evil theme is emplaced. Before Romanticism, writing focused on knowledge and religion. This reform introduced Americans to a more enjoyable style of literature.