Symbolism The Devil And Tom Walker

Symbolism in "The Devil and Tom Walker"

Washington Irving's "The Devil and Tom Walker" is a short story rich with symbolism, using allegorical figures and objects to explore themes of greed, hypocrisy, and the consequences of moral compromise. Published in 1824, the story resonates even today because its exploration of human nature remains timeless. Understanding the symbolism is key to unlocking the deeper meaning and enduring power of Irving's tale.

The Devil: A Multifaceted Symbol

The Devil himself is arguably the most significant symbol in the story. He is far more than just a stereotypical, horned fiend. Irving's Devil is a complex figure representing several intertwined concepts:

1. Temptation and Materialism: The Devil's primary function is to tempt Tom with the buried pirate treasure. This represents the allure of wealth and the corrupting influence of materialism. The Devil's offer is not merely a supernatural bargain; it's a reflection of the pervasive greed that dominated the early American colonial era and continues to plague society. The treasure itself symbolizes the fleeting and ultimately destructive nature of materialistic pursuits.

2. Moral Decay and Hypocrisy: The Devil embodies the hypocrisy prevalent in Puritan society. He preys on Tom's avarice, exploiting his religious pretense and his willingness to sacrifice his wife for personal gain. The Devil's offer directly challenges Tom's professed piety, revealing the gap between his outward devotion and his inner selfishness. This highlights the story's critique of religious hypocrisy and the ease with which individuals can compromise their moral compass for personal advancement.

3. The Shadow Self: The Devil can also be seen as a representation of Tom's own shadow self – the darker, more selfish aspects of his personality that he suppresses in his public life. The interaction with the Devil acts as an externalization of Tom's inner conflict, showcasing the struggle between his desires and his public image. The Devil is, in essence, a manifestation of Tom's repressed greed and ambition.

4. Fate and Inevitable Consequences: The Devil's presence foreshadows the inevitable consequences of Tom's Faustian bargain. He is not merely a tempter; he is an embodiment of fate, representing the inescapable consequences of moral transgression. The story suggests that attempting to cheat the natural order, symbolized by the Devil's deal, will always lead to a disastrous outcome.

Tom Walker: A Symbol of the Faustian Bargain

Tom Walker himself serves as a potent symbol of several key themes:

1. The Corrupted Individual: Tom Walker is a quintessential example of a man consumed by greed and selfishness. His willingness to sacrifice his own wife for financial gain reveals the depths of his moral depravity. He is not inherently evil, but rather a man corrupted by his insatiable desire for wealth and power. This speaks to the human capacity for both good and evil, suggesting that even seemingly ordinary individuals can succumb to terrible temptations.

2. The Hypocrite: Similar to the Devil, Tom Walker is a hypocrite. He publicly professes piety while secretly engaging in unscrupulous activities. His hypocritical nature underscores Irving's satire of religious hypocrisy within Puritan society. His prayers are merely a superficial attempt to appease God while pursuing his selfish desires.

3. The Consequences of Greed: Tom Walker's ultimate fate serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive power of greed. His relentless pursuit of wealth leads to his damnation, demonstrating the high cost of moral compromise. His story is a stark warning against the seductive power of materialism and the importance of ethical conduct.

4. The Reluctant Sinner: While initially hesitant, Tom ultimately embraces the Devil's deal, symbolizing the ease with which individuals can rationalize their immoral behavior. His decision, though driven by avarice, highlights the human tendency to justify selfish actions. This adds a layer of complexity to his character, portraying him not as a purely malevolent figure but as a flawed individual who succumbs to temptation.

The Setting: A Symbolic Landscape

The setting of "The Devil and Tom Walker" is far from incidental; it actively contributes to the story's symbolic power:

1. The Dismal Swamp: The swamp itself serves as a symbolic representation of the underworld or the realm of the Devil. Its dark, murky waters, tangled vegetation, and ominous atmosphere create a sense of foreboding and danger. The swamp becomes a liminal space, a threshold between the mortal and supernatural realms. It is a fitting location for the encounter between Tom and the Devil, reflecting the moral ambiguity of their transaction.

2. The Spooky Forest: The story’s setting reflects a specific historical time period. The decaying trees and haunted atmosphere symbolize the decay of Puritan values and the growing corruption of society.

Other Important Symbols:

Several other symbols add layers of meaning to the narrative:

1. Tom's Wife: Tom's wife functions as a symbol of his own greed and selfishness. His willingness to let her die for the sake of the treasure shows the extent of his moral depravity. Her disappearance, perhaps at the hands of the Devil, adds to the story's atmosphere of suspense and foreshadows Tom's eventual fate.

2. The Trees Marked with Names: The trees carved with the names of those who made deals with the Devil serve as a grim reminder of the consequences of making such a pact. They act as a visual representation of the Devil's power and the inescapable nature of his bargains.

3. The Horse and Carriage: The Devil's mode of transportation, a black horse and carriage, reinforce his supernatural presence and enhance the ominous atmosphere of the narrative. These classic symbols of the Devil further emphasize his power and his control over the protagonist's fate.

4. The Treasure: The buried pirate treasure represents the seductive allure of wealth and its corrupting influence on human beings. The treasure is not a symbol of lasting happiness or fulfillment but instead symbolizes the transient and ultimately destructive nature of materialistic pursuits. The act of digging it up symbolizes the lengths to which humans will go to acquire more.

Conclusion: The Enduring Power of Symbolism

The symbolism in "The Devil and Tom Walker" is not merely decorative; it is integral to the story's meaning and impact. Through the skillful use of allegory and symbolic imagery, Irving explores timeless themes of greed, hypocrisy, and the consequences of moral compromise. By understanding the symbolic significance of the characters, setting, and objects, readers can gain a deeper appreciation for the story's enduring relevance and its powerful commentary on human nature. The story’s lasting impact stems from its use of symbolism that transcends its historical context, making it relatable and meaningful to contemporary audiences. The enduring power of the tale lies in its ability to use these symbolic elements to explore themes still deeply relevant to the human condition.