First, he characterizes Ichabod by using exaggerated diction as being gullible and naive because of his irrational belief in the supernatural. Next, he accentuates Brom Bones’ character to display the qualities a hero should have by using allusions. Finally, he juxtaposes Brom and Ichabod to reaffirm the inadequacy of Ichabod’s attributes as the protagonist which contradicts the reader’s normal expectation of the main character. Irving cites these instances to prove to the readers that the protagonist is not always the hero who displays the qualities of strength, valor, and good