Setting

Outwitting the Devil reflects the place and time during which it was written—America in the late 1930s. With the country still grappling with the aftermath of the Great Depression and facing the looming threat of World War II, this period was characterized by economic uncertainty, social change, and a growing sense of global instability. Hill's work reflects the cultural and societal norms of the United States during this time, addressing the fears and aspirations of a population seeking to rebuild and prosper after years of hardship. However, the “setting” is more psychological than physical, delving into the human mind and spirit.

The book unfolds in an imaginary realm where Hill converses with the Devil, making the setting both timeless and universal. This metaphysical backdrop allows Hill to explore profound truths about human nature, success, and personal growth that transcend any particular time or place, making the book's insights relevant across generations and cultures.

Key Figures

• Napoleon Hill: The author and main character, also referred to as “Mr. Earthbound.” Hill acts as the interviewer, engaging in a profound dialogue with the Devil, asking probing questions to reveal the obstacles that prevent people from reaching their full potential.

• The Devil: The primary antagonist and interviewee, also referred to as “Your Majesty.” He represents the inner dark self and the negative forces that hold people back from achieving their goals. The Devil reveals his methods of manipulation and control, providing insights into how individuals can overcome these obstacles.

• Sharon Lechter: While not a character in the narrative, she plays a significant role as the editor and annotator of the book. Lechter provided contemporary context and insights to make the book more accessible to modern readers.

• Annie Lou Hill: Napoleon Hill's wife. She opposed the publication of the book due to its controversial content, particularly the Devil's role in the narrative.

• Dr. Charles Johnson: Annie Lou's nephew and president of the Napoleon Hill Foundation. He inherited the manuscript after Annie Lou's death and recognized its powerful message.

Quick facts

• Outwitting the Devil was written by Napoleon Hill in 1938 but not published until 2011 due to its controversial nature.

• The book is structured as an imaginary interview between Hill and the Devil.

• Hill's wife, Annie Lou, initially prevented the book’s publication due to the Devil's prominent role. 

• The manuscript was kept hidden by Hill's family for over 70 years.

• Hill wrote this book as a follow-up to his bestseller Think and Grow Rich, aiming to uncover why some people fail despite following his proven success principles.

• Outwitting the Devil explores the concept of “drifters” versus “non-drifters” in life.

• The book outlines Hill's seven principles for overcoming life's obstacles.

• Outwitting the Devil discusses the “law of hypnotic rhythm” as a key concept.

• Sharon Lechter, co-author of Rich Dad Poor Dad, annotated and edited the book for modern readers.

About the Author

Napoleon Hill (1883-1970) was an influential American self-help author. Born in a one-room cabin in southwest Virginia, Hill rose above his humble beginnings to achieve success as a writer and motivational speaker. His career spanned several decades, during which he developed his “Philosophy of Achievement” based on the idea that fervid expectations are essential to improving one's life. Hill's work emphasized the power of positive thinking and personal belief in achieving success, ideas that became cornerstones of the self-help genre.  

Hill is best known for his 1937 book, Think and Grow Rich, which remains among the 10 bestselling self-help books of all time. In 1938, Hill wrote a follow-up, Outwitting the Devil. Due to its controversial premise, the book remained unpublished until 2011—more than 40 years after the author’s death. 

Over a career marked by triumphs and controversies, Hill claimed to have interviewed and learned from some of America's most successful individuals, including Andrew Carnegie and Thomas Edison. Many of these claims have been disputed by historians. Hill founded several businesses and educational institutions, some of which were accused of fraudulent practices. Despite these setbacks, Hill's books, particularly Think and Grow Rich, have sold millions of copies and continue to influence readers worldwide. The Napoleon Hill Foundation, established in 1962, carries on Hill's legacy by promoting his teachings and publishing his works.