The Devil and Tom Walker by Washington Irving

Plot Diagram

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Vocabulary

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TWIST Analysis

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Character Evolution

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Literary Elements

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Essential Questions for “The Devil and Tom Walker”

1. How far would you go, or what price would you pay, to achieve what you want?
2. What are some things in life that you cannot take back?
3. How do good authors use suspense and imagery in their writing?

A Quick Summary of “The Devil and Tom Walker” by Washington Irving

Tom Walker and his wife are miserly and bitter towards each other. The couple even goes as far as hiding money from each other. One day Tom takes a shortcut through a swamp to get home. While resting, his staff hits something on the ground. As Tom unearths it, he realizes it is a skull with an Indian tomahawk cutting it down the middle. A gruff voice says, “Let that skull alone!” Perplexed that someone could approach without his knowledge, he asks the man's identity. Tom soon finds out that he is speaking with the Devil himself.

The Devil takes a liking to Tom, and tells him about a buried treasure he may have if Tom agrees to make a pact with him. Reluctant, Tom returns home to consult his wife on the matter. After speaking with her, he finds himself disinclined to agree with her, especially since she was urging him to bargain away his soul.

Upset with her husband, Tom's wife leaves the house with all their possessions to make a pact with “Old Scratch” herself. Three days pass, and Tom leaves to find her. When he ventures to the swamp, he sees his wife's apron hanging in a tree. However, all that is left inside is a heart and a liver. Indifferent to his wife's apparent death, Tom seeks out the Devil and agrees to the pact. As part of the conditions, Tom is required to use the pirate gold for nefarious business. After much debate, he agrees to start a business as a usurer, a moneylender.

Years go buy, and Tom has been made wealthy by squeezing the money out of his debtors. As time progress, he begins to feel choked by the bargain he struck. Worrying about the quality of his next life, he begins fervently attending church and repenting his sins. He seems very devout, even reading his Bible between business transactions.

One day, a debtor came to plead with Tom not to foreclose on his land, crying that he would be forced on the church, reasoning that Tom has made his money off of him. Tom replies: “The Devil take me if I have made a farthing!" There are three loud knocks at the door. Tom realizes he has left his Bible on his desk, and he is carried off by the Devil and they disappear in a flash of lightning.

Other Lesson Plans & Ideas

1. Use storyboards that show specific cause and effects of events in the story.
2. By just depicting the rising action, create a storyboard demonstrating how the author built suspense.
3. Add a presentation to any storyboard project.

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Frequently Asked Questions about The Devil and Tom Walker by Washington Irving

What is the main theme of 'The Devil and Tom Walker'?

The main theme of 'The Devil and Tom Walker' is the danger of greed and moral corruption. The story explores how selfish choices and striking deals for personal gain can lead to dire consequences.

How can I quickly teach 'The Devil and Tom Walker' to my students?

To teach 'The Devil and Tom Walker' efficiently, start with a summary, discuss its key themes, and use storyboards or visual aids for cause and effect. Engage students with essential questions about greed and choices.

What are effective lesson plan ideas for 'The Devil and Tom Walker'?

Effective lesson plans include creating storyboards for cause and effect, analyzing suspense and imagery, and using presentations to deepen understanding. Focus on activities that encourage critical thinking about choices and consequences.

Why is suspense important in 'The Devil and Tom Walker'?

Suspense is crucial in this story because it keeps readers engaged and highlights the moral tension Tom faces. Irving uses suspenseful events and imagery to build anticipation and emphasize the impact of Tom’s decisions.

What are some examples of imagery in 'The Devil and Tom Walker'?

Notable examples of imagery include the eerie swamp, the skull with a tomahawk, and the lightning at Tom’s disappearance. These vivid descriptions help set the dark tone and reinforce the story’s supernatural elements.