Name
Date
Hour
Romantic Story Analysis Chart
English 11
Below are some characteristics of Romantic literature. As you read, identify which of these
characteristics can be found in the work you are reading. In the right hand column, write an
example of the characteristic in question (with page number). Because of the diversity inherent
in any literary movement, not all works will display all characteristics of the period.
Story Title: “Rip Van Winkle” Author: Washington Irving
Romantic Element
Evidence in this Story (with page number)
Interest in the common
man and childhood
Strong senses, emotions,
and feelings
Love of nature
Celebration of the
Individual
Importance of imagination
Gothic elements
(OVER)
Name
Date
Hour
“Rip Van Winkle” by Washington Irving
English 11
Read the story and answer the questions below. Be sure to fill out a Romantic Story Analysis
Chart, too.
1. How would you describe
Rip Van Winkle? (What
does he enjoy? What
does he dislike?)
2. What is the first
indication that this story
is not wholly realistic?
3. What is Irving
attempting to compare
and contrast in this
story? What is the
message of this
comparison? (Hint:
think of it as a “before
and after” story.)