Lesson flow
5 min
Opening Hook
Start with a brief discussion on the concept of greed in society. Ask students for examples of where they have seen greed affect community welfare.
15–20 min
Story Exploration
Read "A Prophet of Evil" aloud or have students read in pairs. Discuss initial reactions and thoughts on the story’s plot and characters.
15 min
Analysis Exercises
- Divide students into small groups to analyze the motivations of the gravedigger and the undertaker.
10 min
Application/Reflection
Have students write a short paragraph reflecting on what the story teaches about their responsibility to society and how greed can manifest in their own lives.
5 min
Assessment Strategy
Conclude with a quick quiz or informal assessment asking students to summarize the moral of the story in their own words, focusing on key themes.
STORY OVERVIEW
- Title and moral/theme: A Prophet of Evil; The absurdity and detrimental consequences of prioritizing profit over societal needs.
- Plot summary: In this satirical tale, an undertaker encounters a gravedigger who is part of a scheme to limit the production of graves to increase profits. The undertaker warns that such greed could lead to a catastrophic decline in societal wellbeing, humorously suggesting that if graves are not guaranteed, people might stop dying altogether.
- Key characters and their significance:
- The Undertaker: Represents societal care and the moral implications of greed. His lamentation highlights the irony of prioritizing profit over essential services.
- The Gravedigger: Symbolizes the greed-driven mindset, illustrating how self-interest can undermine community needs.
LESSON FUNDAMENTALS
- Learning Objectives:
- Students will identify the main themes and moral lessons of the story.
- Students will analyze the characters' motivations and their impact on society.
- Students will discuss the relevance of greed and ethical responsibility in modern contexts.
- Students will compare this story with other famous fables with moral lessons.
- Discussion Questions:
- What are the potential consequences of prioritizing profit over societal needs?
- How does the humor in the story contribute to its moral message?
- Can you think of modern-day examples where greed has led to negative outcomes for society?
- Required Materials:
- Copies of "A Prophet of Evil" (printed or digital)
- Whiteboard and markers
- Paper and pens for note-taking
Original text available on the story page.