* The introduction of the Headless Horseman: The very first mention of the Headless Horseman sets the stage for the story's eerie atmosphere. The villagers' tales of the horseman, especially Brom Bones's exaggeration, create an aura of fear and the unknown.
* Ichabod's nervousness and anxieties: Ichabod is portrayed as a superstitious and timid man, easily frightened by the stories he hears. His fear of the supernatural is constantly mentioned, hinting at his vulnerability to the Headless Horseman.
* The description of the landscape: Irving describes the Sleepy Hollow valley as a place of "wild, uncultivated country," filled with "gloomy glens" and "lonely swamps." This imagery creates a setting ripe for spooky encounters.
* The mention of the "old family Bible" and the "black arts": The mention of these elements, coupled with Ichabod's interest in the supernatural, creates a sense that something sinister is lurking in the shadows.
* Ichabod's encounters with the Horseman's "shadow": Before the actual encounter, Ichabod experiences strange shadows and hears the sound of galloping hooves. These subtle clues build suspense and prepare the reader for the climax.
The lack of direct foreshadowing adds to the story's mystique and suspense. The events happen unexpectedly, leaving Ichabod and the reader alike unprepared for the Headless Horseman's arrival. Irving masterfully uses atmosphere, character traits, and subtle hints to create an unsettling tension that culminates in the story's chilling conclusion.