SATIRE in “The Devil and Tom Walker”
A Definition SATIRE – Literature that exposes in order to ridicule the vices or follies of people or societies.
Satire in the Tall Tale The main object of Washington Irving’s satire is greedy people, especially those whose wealth is ill-gotten or gained through the bad luck of others. Irving pokes fun at this type of person through his exaggerated characterization of Tom and his wife.
Examples of Exaggeration Neither Tom’s nor his wife’s character is believable. Why? The wife is so greedy that she hides eggs from her husband. Tom is not only eager to trade his soul for wealth, but his greed is greater than even the devil’s.
Other Examples of Tom’s Character That Add a Comic Effect Greed – charges more interest than even the devil suggests Hypocrisy – has sold soul to the devil but criticizes others for being sinful Miserliness – won’t even spend money to feed horses or grease his wagon wheels
Other Examples of Tom’s Character That Add a Comic Effect (cont.) Foolishness – trades peace of mind (and eternity) for wealth Stubbornness – wants to make a deal with the devil but doesn’t because his wife wants him to