In the beginning of “The Devil and Tom Walker,” Washington Irving gives the reader some background about the treasure of the pirate Captain Kidd. What can the reader infer is Irving’s purpose in providing these details? Explain why you did or did not choose each answer.
a. He is trying to create a scary atmosphere for the rest of the story.
b. He is hinting at Tom Walker’s strong appetite for ill-gotten money.
c. He is foreshadowing the appearance of the Devil.
d. He is taking the opportunity to describe the swamp in great detail.

Question

In the beginning of “The Devil and Tom Walker,” Washington Irving gives the reader some background about the treasure of the pirate Captain Kidd. What can the reader infer is Irving’s purpose in providing these details? Explain why you did or did not choose each answer.
a.      He is trying to create a scary atmosphere for the rest of the story. 
b.      He is hinting at Tom Walker’s strong appetite for ill-gotten money. 
c.      He is foreshadowing the appearance of the Devil. 
d.      He is taking the opportunity to describe the swamp in great detail.