The Devil and Tom Walker Cover Image

Analysis Pages

Satire in The Devil and Tom Walker

Irving uses satire to not only show that characters are morally backwards but also to add humor to the story. For example, Tom's loveless, hostile marriage to his wife both satirizes the institution of marriage and provides humor in the despicable nature of both characters. In this way, the story becomes simultaneously morally educational and entertaining.

Satire Examples in The Devil and Tom Walker:

Text of the Story