Comparison of British Rule and DemocracyRip Van Winkle In post-Revolutionary America, literature began to show the influence of newly democratic created. As is the case with any young government, many different interest groups formed to try to shape the government according to their vision of democracy. Washington Irving, a New York native born in 1783, grew up in a world immersed in this democratic fanaticism. He grew up to become, as befitted his childhood atmosphere, a political satirist. This satirical nature of Irving shines brightly in Rip Van Winkle, as he uses historical allusions and symbolic characters to mockingly compare colonial life under British rule to the democracy of the young United States. The first historical satire is linked to the name of Peter Stuyvesant, who is twice mentioned with exaggerated praise. Stuyvesant, a harsh and greatly hated governor, was in power when the English captured New York. Irving uses false respect for Stuyvesant to please the Dutch in New York, who blamed him for the loss of land to the English. After setting the scene as a Dutch-friendly narrator, Irving introduces Dame Van Winkle, Rip's stern wife, who despises Rip's laziness and carelessness. Dame Van Winkle's harsh control over her husband represents King George and English rule over the colonies. While the colonies were mistreated by George, while feeling loyal and attached to the Crown, Rip stood by his demanding wife. The irony lies in Rip's indifference towards Dame Van Winkle. He was scolded and directed, but he was happy. Nicholas Vedder, the owner of the inn, who dominated the conversations and opinions of the junta, represents the colonial governors appointed by the Crown. Although he rarely spoke, his influence was always present. This reflects the inactive role played by governors in political affairs and the considerable respect the colonists accorded them. The relationship between the governors and Britain is perfectly illustrated by Irving when Lady Van Winkle comes to the inn to collect her husband. “Nicholas Vedder himself, frightened by the bold language of this terrible virago, who bluntly accused him of encouraging her husband to adopt habits of idleness. » (Irving 901) Although he is an influential man, Nicholas is no match for Dame Van Winkle's intimidation. . The turning point in the story occurs when Rip goes deep into the woods and encounters a mysterious band of strangely dressed strangers with foreign customs...