1. Actions and Decisions: Tom's choices throughout the story reveal his greed, selfishness, and lack of morality. He readily agrees to the devil's bargain despite the obvious consequences. His interactions with his wife and his later attempts to "repent" are further evidence of his character flaws.
2. Dialogue and Speech: The dialogue in the story is often terse and revealing. Tom's bluntness and the devil's slyness show their contrasting personalities. Tom's wife's sharp tongue and her ultimate fate further emphasize the consequences of avarice.
3. Physical Description: While not overly descriptive, Irving does use physical details to hint at character traits. Tom's "sour, forbidding visage" and his "hard, unfeeling" eyes reinforce his negative qualities.
4. Symbolism: The story uses symbolism to highlight character traits. Tom's constant obsession with money and his willingness to sell his soul for it symbolize his greed. The "black" and "dark" imagery associated with the devil underscores the dangers of unchecked ambition and the potential for evil.
5. Contrast and Comparison: Irving often presents characters in contrast to each other, highlighting their opposing qualities. Tom's ruthlessness and avarice are starkly contrasted with the kindness and generosity of the community he betrays.
6. Irony: The story is filled with ironic situations that reveal character. For example, Tom's efforts to "repent" are ultimately meaningless because his greed is so deeply ingrained. The "grim" irony of his eventual fate underscores the consequences of his actions.
7. Through the Narrator's Tone: The narrator's tone is often sardonic and cynical, revealing a critical view of Tom Walker and his choices. This adds another layer of commentary to the characters' actions and motivations.
By using these techniques, Irving paints a vivid and memorable portrait of Tom Walker and his tragic descent into darkness. The story ultimately serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed, selfishness, and the importance of morality.