Based on real events from the life of a prominent American lawyer, Daniel Webster, this short story explores themes of patriotism, slavery, and Hell as the fictionalised Webster attempts to save a man’s soul from the Devil. First published in 1936, The Devil and Daniel Webster was written by Stephen Vincent Benét. An allegorical exploration of what it means to be American, the short story plays on real events. It utilises fictionalised versions of real people in US history to explore the country’s obsession with freedom and independence. Daniel Webster (1782–1852) was a prominent lawyer in the nineteenth century, arguing over 200 cases before the Supreme Court. In this short story, he attempts to save a man’s soul and puts his persuasive powers to the test against the harshest judge of all: the Devil.
"This unique collection gathers a generous selection of Benet's verse - including the previously unpublished first book of Western Star - together with sixteen of his celebrated short stories.
Touching on some of the most topical and controversial concerns at the heart of our society, this riveting novel examines the fragility that lies behind who we think we are-and what we think we believe.
This collection also includes six more short stories that depict diverse historical elements in America's social tapestry with memorable and amusing characters.
Contains the stories; Devil and Daniel Webster, By the waters of Babylon and Johnny Pye and the fool-killer.
In a tale that draws as much from an episode of "Law and Order" as it does from history, this is the fight of the century, and one man's life and the future of a nation are at stake. "A clever re-telling. Charming on every level!