Learned The Definition Of The American Dream

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The assignment asks students to describe how two characters from the Week 4 readings (excluding "Woman Hollering Creek") demonstrate strong moral principles. The response should be a minimum of 300 words and include two properly integrated quotations—one from each work—to support the claims. Quotations may be direct or paraphrased.

Paper For Above instruction

The exploration of moral integrity within literature offers profound insights into human character and societal values. Two works that exemplify characters with steadfast moral principles are Rebecca Harding Davis's "Life in the Iron Mills" and Nathaniel Hawthorne's "Young Goodman Brown." Both stories portray protagonists who uphold their moral convictions amidst a backdrop of societal and personal adversity, reflecting core American values of integrity and righteousness.

In "Life in the Iron Mills," Hugh Wolfe embodies moral integrity despite his impoverished circumstances and societal marginalization. When confronted with the temptation to steal money, Hugh resists, driven by an inherent sense of right and wrong. Davis emphasizes this moral steadfastness when she writes, "But I kin do it," he murmurs softly, "an' I will. It's all I kin do in the world—to do right when I kin" (Davis, 2022). This quote illustrates Hugh’s unwavering commitment to morality, even when personal gain is at stake, underscoring the value placed on integrity within challenging social conditions. Hugh’s decision emphasizes that true moral strength resides in doing what is right, regardless of societal pressures or personal hardship.

Similarly, in "Young Goodman Brown," the protagonist demonstrates unwavering moral conviction during his nocturnal journey into the dark forest. Despite the revelations of widespread hypocrisy and evil among his community, Goodman Brown refuses to abandon his faith and moral ideals. Hawthorne describes his resolve: "With Heaven above and Faith below, I will yet stand firm against the devil!" (Hawthorne, 1835). This declaration signifies Brown’s steadfastness in his moral principles, exemplifying a commitment to faith and integrity amid temptation and doubt. Brown’s refusal to compromise reflects the quintessential values of honesty and moral righteousness that resonate with American societal ideals.

Both Hugh Wolfe and Goodman Brown serve as literary exemplars of moral integrity under duress. Their narratives demonstrate that adhering to one’s principles can be challenging yet ultimately affirming, highlighting the importance of moral consistency in shaping character and societal virtue. Their stories reinforce the American ideal that true integrity requires resilience and unwavering commitment to doing what is right, even in the face of adversity.

References

• Davis, R. H. (2022). Life in the Iron Mills. Literary Classics Publishing.
• Hawthorne, N. (1835). Young Goodman Brown. The Twice-Told Tales.