Lesson flow
Opening hook
Begin with a brief discussion on the concept of hypocrisy. Ask students if they can think of a time when someone said one thing but did another. Share a relatable example to engage them.
Story exploration
Read the story aloud or have students read it in pairs. Discuss the main events and characters, encouraging students to note any contradictions in the advocate's behavior.
Analysis exercises
Divide students into small groups to analyze the character of the Distinguished Advocate. Ask them to create a list of statements he made before the king's arrival and how those statements contrast with his actions.
Application/reflection
Have students write a short reflection on a time they witnessed hypocrisy in their lives or in the media. Encourage them to think about how they responded and what they learned from the experience.
Assessment strategy
Use a quick exit ticket asking students to summarize the moral of the story and provide an example from their own lives that relates to it.
STORY OVERVIEW
- Title and moral/theme: His Fly-Speck Majesty; The moral highlights the hypocrisy of individuals who criticize authority in theory but eagerly seek its favor in practice.
- Plot summary: The story follows a distinguished advocate of republicanism who is found pickling his shins in the ocean, eagerly awaiting the arrival of a king. Despite his previous denunciations of monarchy, he reveals his desire to be the first to greet the king, showcasing the contradiction in his beliefs.
- Key characters and their significance:
- Distinguished Advocate of Republican Institutions: Represents hypocrisy and the human tendency to compromise principles for personal gain.
- Spectator: Acts as a voice of reason, questioning the advocate's contradictory behavior and highlighting the absurdity of the situation.
LESSON FUNDAMENTALS
- Learning objectives:
- Students will identify the key themes of hypocrisy and authority in the story.
- Students will analyze character motivations and contradictions.
- Students will discuss the relevance of the moral in contemporary society.
- Students will create their own animal stories with moral lessons inspired by this tale.
- Discussion questions:
- What does the advocate's behavior tell us about human nature and our values?
- How can the moral of the story apply to modern societal issues regarding authority?
- In what ways can we see similar contradictions in our own lives or in public figures today?
- Required materials:
- Copies of 'His Fly-Speck Majesty'
- Whiteboard and markers
- Paper and art supplies for extension activities
Original text available on the story page.