Elmer Gantry · Chapter
Chapter XIV explained
Elmer and Sharon's relationship deepens, marked by Sharon's unpredictable moods and Elmer's growing ambition.
What happens
Elmer and Sharon's relationship deepens, marked by Sharon's unpredictable moods and Elmer's growing ambition. They navigate a scandal when Adelbert Shoop discovers them in a compromising situation, leading to a decision to rent furnished houses for privacy. The chapter highlights the troupe's chaotic lifestyle, financial disputes, and Elmer's increasing confidence as he envisions a future as a great evangelist, culminating in a meeting with Dr. Howard Bancock Binch.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
Elmer’s public vindication through Hettie’s confession and the immediate offers of prestigious positions mark…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Hypocrisy and Corruption in Religion
Sharon condemns dancing in sermons but enjoys it privately; the troupe's drinking and property damage contradict their public piety.
- Manipulation and Showmanship in Evangelism
Elmer and Dr. Binch discuss manipulative techniques to force conversions, such as having people stand up instead of raising hands.
- Ambition and the Pursuit of Power
Elmer's ambition to marry Sharon, supersede her as leader, and become a great evangelist drives his actions.
Characters to notice
- Elmer Gantry
Devoted to Sharon but resents her higher salary; envisions future power as a clergyman.
- Sharon Falconer
Incalculable moods ranging from priestess to child; struggles with the demands of her ministry.
- Adelbert Shoop
Discovers Elmer and Sharon in bed; later flattered to ensure loyalty.
- Dr. Howard Bancock Binch
Baptist evangelist who debates hymn and conversion methods with Elmer and Sharon.
- Lily Anderson
Pianist who protests the troupe's late-night parties and urges early bedtimes.
- Art Nichols
Cornetist who occasionally drinks heavily and participates in the troupe's revelry.
Key passages
“Sometimes she was a priestess and a looming disaster, sometimes she was intimidating in grasping passion, sometimes she was thin and writhing and anguished with chagrined doubt of herself, sometimes she was pale and nun-like and still, sometimes she was a chilly business woman, and sometimes she was a little girl.”
Sharon's moods were wildly unpredictable, shifting between a commanding priestess, a passionate lover, a self-doubting wreck, a serene nun, a cold businesswoman, and a childish girl.
Highlights Sharon's multifaceted personality and the instability Elmer must navigate.
“I always begin by asking those interested in being prayed for to hold up their hands. ... No, ... my experience is that there are many timid people who have to be led gradually. To ask them to stand up is too big a step.”
Dr. Binch prefers a gradual approach to altar calls, starting with raised hands, while Elmer advocates for having people stand up to make it harder for them to resist.
Illustrates the calculated methods evangelists use to pressure converts.
