Definition: When someone acts in a way that appears moral, kind, or virtuous—not because they genuinely are, but because they want to be seen that way.

It's goodness done for show, approval, or control—not from a place of real empathy, belief, or integrity.

Flannery O’Connor (1925–1964) was a Southern Gothic writer known for her sharp, unsettling stories that explore questions of morality, grace, and human nature. Born and raised in Georgia, O’Connor infused her fiction with the voices and contradictions of the American South. A devout Catholic, she often used violence and dark humor to reveal moments of spiritual reckoning and confront the hypocrisy she saw in both religious and secular life. Despite a short life—cut short by lupus at age 39—O’Connor left behind a powerful body of work, including two novels and over 30 short stories. Her distinctive style, flawed characters, and haunting endings continue to provoke readers and spark debate. 

The grandmother talks about morality, religion, or being "a lady." 

• what does she say or do to seem like a "good" person?

The grandmother compares herself to others or judges them.  

• Who does she label as “good” or “bad,” and why?

Her actions don’t match her words.

• Are there times she says something moral but acts selfishly?

Other characters' reactions to her

• How do Bailey, the children, and anyone else respond to her “goodness”?

In a well-developed paragraph, how does "A Good Man is Hard to Find" use the grandmother's character to explore the idea of performative goodness—acting "good" for appearance or social approval rather than from genuine morality? Provide examples from the text to support your analysis.

Arthur Miller (1915-2005), one of America’s greatest playwrights, wrote The Crucible as a powerful allegory about fear, mass hysteria, and the consequences of unchecked authority. Set during the Salem witch trials but written in response to the Red Scare and McCarthyism of the 1950s, the play remains deeply relevant today. The Crucible offers rich opportunities to explore integrity, reputation, power, and the dangers of conformity. 

Definition: McCarthyism was a period in 1950s America when people were accused of being communists without solid evidence, leading to fear, false accusations, and ruined reputations. It was named after Senator Joseph McCarthy, who led aggressive investigations during the Red Scare.