The Devil and Tom Walker responding and thinking critically

The initial description of Tom Walker focuses heavily on his miserly tendencies, which indicates right off the bat that these are what will cause trouble for him. The negative relationship between he and his wife is an important factor of their characterization as well, as it shows that Tom is not satisfied with his current life situation and, naturally, will seek something greater when the opportunity arises.

Tom Walker is not a likable character. Readers are not meant to sympathize with him, nor are they supposed to root for him as the story progresses. In fact, the author intends for readers to feel quite the opposite; they are meant to be repulsed by him and hope that he gets his comeuppance. If Tom Walker were likable, readers would not come away from this story having learned the intended lesson.