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Short Essay
The short story, “Rip Van Winkle” by Washington Irving is a perfect illustration of change. The British Empire acquired many colonies from various corners around the world. American societies experienced sufferings due to the high taxes and trade restrictions imposed on them by the British. For these reasons, some Americans could not tolerate such pains and embarked on a revolutionary war. These events attracted people like Irving Washington who emerged to push for change and bring order. Washington, in his short story, portrays the existing struggle between Britain and America as well as the changes that took place. He does these by narrating fictitious events and characters that represent real history. According to Irving, change is a critical aspect that societies must embrace.
Irving further illustrates change by emphasizing that various characters like Rip Van Winkle suffered oppressions from marriage, household chores and the error of tyranny needed change. He urges people that they can still gain freedom and change by getting rid of oppression and dictatorship. Irving as well demonstrates the change concept by narrating that his wife’s death was a sign that people can still enjoy a new world in their societies. The death of his wife relieved him from the tyranny of marriage. Irving urges people through his story that change is inevitable no matter the situation and that one needs to face trails and turbulence with inspiration and firmness. Irving narrates in his story that there is a new ray of hope after every struggle. The village people in this narrative are used by Irving to prove that society can indeed change after realizing its freedom. Irving also uses colonial tales to highlight the political changes that took place in his community.