"The Man That Corrupted Hadleyburg" by Mark Twain is a thought-provoking novella that delves into the topic of human nature and the power of temptation. The story follows the residents of the seemingly virtuous town of Hadleyburg as they are put to the test by a mysterious stranger who seeks to corrupt their moral fiber.

Twain's satirical wit shines through in this tale, as he exposes the hypocrisy and self-righteousness that can lurk beneath the surface of seemingly upright individuals. The characters in the story are vividly drawn, and their reactions to the tempter's scheme are both humorous and revealing.

Throughout the novella, Twain explores complex themes such as greed, justice, and the nature of truth. The ending of the story is both surprising and satisfying, leaving the reader with much to ponder about the nature of human morality.

Overall, "The Man That Corrupted Hadleyburg" is a short but powerful work that showcases Twain's keen insight into human behavior and his talent for storytelling. It is a must-read for fans of classic literature and those interested in exploring the darker side of human nature.

Book Description:
The town of Hadleyburg had the reputation of being the most honest town in a wide area, indeed an incorruptible community. The elders took this reputation so to heart that they brought up their children shielded from all temptation and trained thoroughly in total honesty. However, a stranger passing through the community was seriously offended by the actions of residents of this Utopia, and he vowed to gain revenge. After several years he came up with the perfect plan to embarrass the town and expose its hypocrisy. (Introduction by Leonard Wilson)