Title: Rip Van Winkle Characters - eNotes.com
Headings: Rip Van Winkle Characters
Rip Van Winkle Characters
Characters
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Rip Van Winkle
Dame Van Winkle
Judith Cardenier
Rip Van Winkle, Jr.
The Stranger
Hendrick (Henry) Hudson
Nicholas Vedder
Derrick Van Bummel
Brom Dutcher
Peter Vanderdonk
The Self-Important Man
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Content: Most of the older villagers believe Rip's story and credit the existence of Hudson's spirit. Even the younger villagers, who are more skeptical, begin to like Rip. Rip’s story later serves as a comfort to all the men who want to escape their nagging wives. The men are said to wish for a sip of the mystical beer Rip tasted and find themselves freed by a long and deep sleep. Dame Van Winkle
Dame Van Winkle is Rip Van Winkle’s nagging wife. Rip often tries to escape her contentious nature by spending time with the men outside the inn. He also escapes her by going hunting and fishing. Dame Van Winkle is portrayed as a villain, deserving of blame. Yet, Dame Van Winkle is justified in her nagging, given that Rip won't work the farm or help with domestic matters. Rip leaves Dame Van Winkle alone to fend for the family.