About This Lesson
Is the commercial spirit good for civic virtue? Consider the status of virtue in a democratic society devoted to gain and self-interest by reading Mark Twain's short story, "The Man That Corrupted Hadleyburg" (pdf below). Then visit the following links for additional resources, including a study guide, biographical information and a video discussion with editors Amy A. Kass and Leon R. Kass and New York Times columnist David Brooks. Aligned to Common Core State Standards: RL.9-10.1, RL.9-10.2, RL.9-10.3