The Visible vs. the Invisible

When one is faced with an unsolved problem, the first step is to research the topic causing the problem. This research, building a foundation to form one’s facts will also include any known background knowledge. Whilst browsing the internet or a published book to find useful information, one should gather information from all spectrums focused on the topic. By supporting the argument with well-rounded research, it is easier to form a conclusion, thus solving the problem. This format has the ability to be used in most circumstances, including in real-life events. However, if this process is not accurately used, one could end up with incorrect results or lack supporting evidence. Lacking knowledge causes fear in the common man, for fear of the unknown is like a child’s fear of the dark. Through the characters and tone of fear in Sleepy Hollow, Tim Burton depicts the issue that without well-rounded intelligence in all circumstances, fear of the unknown will thus cloud sense and reason.

The use of science in Sleepy Hollow gives an accurate interpretation of natural circumstances, but when faced with the unexplained, there is nothing to logically prove. Ichabod Crane, a constable, is sent to the town of Sleepy Hollow to investigate the odd murders with only the vague background knowledge on the matter. While there, the fearful elders in the town, one being Baltus Van Tassel, explain the Headless Horseman folklore. Their fear is a representation of the known Puritan fear of the forest, for they lack knowledge on what is actually occurring, thus blaming the tale. Burton makes it evident that Ichabod is a clear, physical representation of science in the film, for he has no religious affiliation, not believing in what he cannot see. He s...

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...ral puts the characters at a standstill. They become skeptical of one another but overlook the true issues and culprit behind the murders, Lady Van Tassel. The “war” between the odds is undoubtedly not toward just the fear of science or the supernatural, but a war between people. Fear put people against each other when their unity was needed most. However, if this fear was to diminish, the overall narration would take another course. Burton would most likely not use certain aspects of tone, such as the dim lighting or the crucial emotions of character, for the emotion of fear would be invalid. The need for Ichabod to solve the mystery would be void, for the people of Sleepy Hollow could have closed the case without question. Burton’s use of fear creates the main conflict of the film, the ignorance of the characters just as important as the Headless Horseman himself.