The Devil and Daniel Webster

"devil-and-daniel-webster">The Devil and Daniel Webster" is a short story by Stephen Vincent Benét that explores themes of good versus evil, morality, and free will. It tells the tale of a New England farmer, Jabez Stone, who makes a pact with the Devil for prosperity but finds himself regretting the bargain. In a dramatic twist, renowned lawyer Daniel Webster defends Stone in a trial against the Devil, arguing for the farmer’s soul. The story blends elements of folklore and American history, illustrating the struggle between individual desires and the consequences of one’s choices, ultimately championing human resilience and justice.