THEMES

      Moral Allegory

A moral allegory conveys a moral message
through symbolic figures, imagery, and plots that
give moral retribution to immoral characters.
“The Devil and Tom Walker” contains a moral
allegory that offers a warning against greed and
the pursuit of earthly gain. In this story, sinful
behavior is met with punishment, and the devil
controls the souls of those driven by wealth.

THEMES IN THE DEVIL AND TOM WALKER

Moral Corruption

Tom Walker and his wife embody moral corruption, greed, and
hypocritical religion. They are both willing to sacrifice the other for
material gain. Tom manipulates his friendships with others to take
advantage of them in his business, and he uses false religion to
appear like an upstanding citizen. Tom and his wife both suffer
retribution at the hands of the devil, emphasizing the story’s theme
that moral corruption ends in punishment and damnation.

THEMES IN THE DEVIL AND TOM WALKER

Social Commentary

Irving’s tale makes strong social commentary against the slave
trade and religious persecution. Even Tom, a character driven by
greed and self interest, will not engage in the slave trade. This is a
strong condemnation of the institution of slavery. Religious
persecution of Anabaptists and Quakers is shown as pleasing to the
devil, suggesting that squabbles among sects of Christianity serve
the devil, not the community.