What is the difference between self-serving ambition and noble ambition? Explore the character and career of Aaron Burr.

Essential Question

• How do you know when ambition is self-sacrificing and when it is self-serving?

Guiding Questions

• Why is noble ambition directed toward self-sacrifice and public service a civic virtue, whereas self-serving ambition is a vice? 
• What are the differences between a healthy ambition to serve the public as a leader and an unhealthy ambition to serve only one’s own interests?

Learning Objectives

• Students will differentiate between self-sacrificing and self-serving ambition by naming examples of each and supporting their claims with evidence. 
• Students will use the story of Aaron Burr to understand the dangers of hubris and how serving the republic is a noble virtue, while pursuing one’s self-interest is a lowly vice. 
• Students will reflect on using their talents and ambition to serve others while avoiding hubris. 

Student Resources

• Engage: Ambition Graphic Organizer
• Aaron Burr & Hubris Narrative
• Assess & Reflect: Ambition Action Plan Organizer

Teacher Resources

• Analysis Questions
• Virtue in Action
• Journal Activity
• Sources for Further Reading
• Virtue Across the Curriculum

Procedures:

• The following lesson asks students to consider the vice of hubris to understand the differences between self-sacrificing and self-serving ambition. A self-sacrificing, or noble, ambition, can drive one to serve the public as a lawgiver, a military hero, a builder of art and culture, an inventor, or a business leader. On the other hand, hubris and self-serving ambition for power and glory can lead one to put their ambitions above those of the public and can sometimes lead to destruction and a tragic fall.
• Students will engage with the story of Aaron Burr as a warning against self-serving ambition and hubris as they consider the question: How do you know when ambition is self-sacrificing and when it is self-serving?
• The main activity in this lesson requires students to read and analyze a narrative that explores how Aaron Burr chose self-serving ambition over self-sacrificing ambition. Students may work individually, in pairs, or in small groups as best fits your classroom. The analysis questions provided can be used to help students comprehend and think critically about the content. As the teacher, you can decide which questions best fit your students’ needs and time restraints.
• Lastly, the lesson includes sources used in this lesson for further reading and suggestions for cross-curricular connections.