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The Devil and Daniel Webster: A Literary Masterpiece of American Folklore and Legal Drama

David Mitchell

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The Devil and Daniel Webster is a classic American short story by Stephen Vincent Benét, published in 1936. It is a tale of a farmer named Jabez Stone who sells his soul to the devil in exchange for seven years of good luck. However, when the devil comes to collect his due, Jabez is defended by the renowned lawyer Daniel Webster. The story explores themes of morality, justice, and the power of spoken and written language.

Plot Summary

The story begins in the New Hampshire town of Cross Corners in the year 1840. Jabez Stone is a hard-working farmer who is struggling to make ends meet. One night, he is visited by a stranger who offers him seven years of good luck in exchange for his soul. Jabez, desperate for a change in his fortunes, agrees to the deal.

For the next seven years, Jabez enjoys good luck in all his endeavors. He becomes a wealthy and respected member of the community. However, as the end of the seven years approaches, Jabez begins to worry about the fate of his soul. He seeks out the help of Daniel Webster, the most famous lawyer in the country.

The Devil and Daniel Webster

by JÚLIO MIRANDA FILHO

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	169 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	21 pages

Webster agrees to defend Jabez in a trial to determine whether or not he must give up his soul to the devil. The trial takes place in a local courthouse, with the devil himself prosecuting. Webster delivers a passionate defense of Jabez, arguing that he was tricked into signing the contract and that he has since repented of his sins.

The jury is swayed by Webster's eloquence and finds in favor of Jabez. The devil is forced to withdraw his claim to Jabez's soul, and Jabez is free to live the rest of his life in peace.

Characters

Jabez Stone: A hard-working farmer who sells his soul to the devil in exchange for seven years of good luck.
Daniel Webster: A renowned lawyer who defends Jabez in a trial to determine whether or not he must give up his soul to the devil.
The Devil: A cunning and persuasive figure who tempts Jabez with the offer of good luck.

Themes

Morality: The story explores the moral implications of selling one's soul to the devil. Jabez is tempted by the devil's offer of good luck, but he ultimately realizes that his soul is more important.
Justice: The story also explores the theme of justice. Webster is able to defend Jabez against the devil's claims by arguing that Jabez was tricked into signing the contract and that he has since repented of his sins.
The Power of Spoken and Written Language: The story also highlights the power of spoken and written language. Webster's eloquent defense of Jabez is able to sway the jury in his favor.

Literary Techniques

Benét uses a variety of literary techniques in The Devil and Daniel Webster to create a vivid and engaging story. These techniques include:

Imagery: Benét uses vivid imagery to create a strong sense of place and atmosphere. For example, he describes the town of Cross Corners as "a place where time seemed to have stopped."
Symbolism: Benét also uses symbolism to create a deeper meaning in the story. For example, the devil is often associated with evil and temptation, while Daniel Webster is associated with justice and righteousness.
Irony: Benét also uses irony to create a sense of humor and suspense in the story. For example, Jabez's good luck ultimately leads to his downfall.

The Devil and Daniel Webster is a classic American short story that explores timeless themes of morality, justice, and the power of spoken and written language. Benét's vivid imagery, symbolism, and irony create a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The Devil and Daniel Webster

by JÚLIO MIRANDA FILHO

4.5 out of 5