Tom really only knows that the man in the forest is the Devil because he deduces it from the clues and titles that are provided to him. Among the hints he provides are the fact that he is black, but not African, nor is he “red” or “white” – meaning that he identifies as none of the human races present in Massachusetts.

What motivates Tom’s wife to meet with the Devil? Tom’s greediness is so powerful that he is now willing to bargain with the devil, since he will not have to share any resulting riches with his wife.

How did Tom meet the devil? Tom was taking a short cut home through the swamp and stopped to take a rest. Most people would have been scared to go through the swamp. Tom stopped to rest on the shortcut home.

Once day, Tom meets the devil in a swamp. The devil says he will show Tom where some gold is hidden. In return, Tom has to give his soul to the devil.

Tom’s wife decides to go the Indian fort to try to strike her own deal. She disappears. The most likely story is that she fought with the Devil and he killed her. All that was found of her was he heart and liver tied up in her apron.

Since Tom didn’t spend money on the slave ship, what does this reveal about Tom? He genuinely wanted to do the right thing. How does Tom’s life change after he gets the money? He became rich and well known.

Tom is stubborn, not easily intimidated, and has a bossy wife, so he does not fear the Devil. Most people would be nervous walking through woods that people say are haunted.