# Nathaniel Benham — Elmer Gantry character guide

> Nathaniel Benham in Elmer Gantry by Sinclair Lewis.

**Role:** minor

**Also known as:** Nat, Mr. Benham

**First appearance:** 0023-chapter-iv

## Who they are

Cleo Benham's father.

## In the story

### [Chapter XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/chapter-xix)

The leading trustee of the church and a wealthy merchant; gives Elmer a dry, questioning welcome.

### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/i)

Leading trustee of the local church and chief general merchant; gives Elmer a dry, businesslike welcome and questions his habits.

### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/iv)

Hosts Elmer warmly, questions him about his religious work, and is impressed by his credentials.

### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/vii)

Calls the reception to order and gives a short welcoming speech.

### [Chapter XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/chapter-xxi)

Cleo's father, interferes with Elmer's courtship, approves of the engagement.

### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/i)

Cleo's father, who constantly interrupts Elmer's private moments with Cleo to discuss theology.

### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/ii)

Returns home with his wife and celebrates the engagement.

### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/iii)

Cleo's father, who gives Elmer a five-thousand-dollar check as a wedding gift.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/characters/nathaniel_benham
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se
- All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/characters