'Devil's Bridge' Summary

The poem describes the Devil's Bridge, a bridge in the Swiss Alps, and its legendary origins. According to the legend, the Devil, frustrated by the lack of a bridge over a treacherous gorge, offered to build one in exchange for the soul of the first person to cross it. A cunning villager, seeing an opportunity to outsmart the Devil, made a deal: the Devil would build the bridge, but the first to cross would be a dog. The Devil, bound by the terms of the agreement, built the bridge. However, when the villager crossed, the Devil, angered and betrayed, cursed the bridge, saying that it would crumble if any living person ever crossed it. The poem then shifts to a different perspective, reflecting on the bridge's existence as a testament to both the devil's cunning and the villagers' resourcefulness. It speaks to the power of faith and ingenuity, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, there's always a way to overcome. Through his powerful imagery and captivating storytelling, Longfellow blends historical fact with folklore, creating a compelling and unforgettable narrative about the bridge and the legend surrounding it.