The Devil And Tom Walker

Fiction | Short Story | Adult | Published in 1824

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Irving created the plot of “The Devil and Tom Walker” by combining various traditional motifs, yet he takes pains to make the story appear to be an old American legend. How does Irving do this and why? Does his choosing to remain “invisible” as the author make the story more or less effective?

Many of Irving’s folktales (e.g., “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”) center on New York state, while “The Devil and Tom Walker” is set in Puritan New England. Why did Irving choose this setting, and do you think it is necessary to the tale?

Discuss the marriage of Tom and his wife. Do they deserve each other? Of the two, is one more morally corrupt than the other?

In your interpretation, who instigates Tom’s moral downfall, him or Old Scratch? Include detailed descriptions from the story to support your answer.

In your opinion, why does Tom persevere in doing business with Old Scratch even after he has seen the fate of Deacon Peabody, Absalom Crowninshield, and others? What does the story say about morality?

Do you find that the lack of a sympathetic character weakens the story? Why or why not?

In your judgment, would the story have been more effective if Tom had a chance for repentance, rather than being abruptly carried away by Old Scratch? Why or why not?