About This Lesson
What kind of religious beliefs and practices support civic freedom and virtue? Compare two guiding ideas of the American republic—the pursuit of happiness and the spirit of reverence— by reading Nathaniel Hawthorne's short story, "The May-Pole of Merry Mount" (pdf below). Then, visit the following links for additional resources including a study guide, biographical information, and video discussions between Yuval Levin and editors Amy A. Kass, Leon R. Kass, and Diana Schaub about the story. CCSS: RL.9-10.1, RL.9-10.2, RL.9-10.3
