The Man That Corrupted Hadleyburg, and other stories

Set in the seemingly perfect town of Hadleyburg, known for its unwavering honesty, the story explores themes of integrity and corruption. The town's pride in its virtuous reputation leads to a rigid upbringing, where children are taught honesty from infancy and shielded from temptation. However, the arrival of a mysterious corrupter threatens to unravel this facade, drawing parallels to the biblical Garden of Eden. Twain's narrative critiques the dangers of self-righteousness and the fragility of moral superiority.