The Devil and Tom Walker

Tom's statement, "the devil take me if I have made a farthing," is ironic because, while he denies profiting from his usurious actions, the devil literally claims him shortly after. This dramatic...

The irony in the Devil's battle with Tom's wife lies in her fierce determination and stinginess, which make her a formidable opponent even for the Devil. Despite her reputation for being overbearing...

Irving's humor in describing Tom's work as a usurer enhances the narrative by using irony and surprise. The narrator initially portrays Tom as a "universal friend of the needy," suggesting he offers...