Stereotypes In Hundert's Classroom

Canin introduces the character of the narrator by describing his classroom as “a tribute to the lofty ideals of man, which I hoped would inspire my boys, and at the same time to the fleeting nature of human accomplishment, which I hoped would temper their ambition with humility” (pp. 156–157). This description establishes the important role Hundert sees himself playing in the lives of his students. He believes that the examples of history he teaches his students will help them to become future leaders, men with great ambitions who also possess humility. Hundert’s interactions with Senator Bell reinforce Hundert’s idealistic self-perception. When Hundert meets with the senator to discuss Sedgewick’s inappropriate behavior, the senator challenges