Elmer Gantry · Character

Philip McGarry

A blunt, honest doctor and Frank Shallard's friend, the kind of plain-dealing man Elmer instinctively avoids and quietly fears.

supporting

Also known as Dr. McGarry, Phil

First appearance: chapter viii

As a supporting figure in Elmer Gantry, Philip McGarry is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

Philip McGarry is a controversial, liberal Methodist minister known for his criticism of bishops and social institutions, and his emphasis on the leadership of Jesus.

In the storyChapter XXIIIOpen this moment free

See Philip McGarry in Chapter XXIII Book page

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Dr. McGarry moves through the novel's clerical circles as a layman who says what he thinks and has no patience for pious humbug. His friendship with Frank Shallard gives that struggling minister a rare refuge of unpretentious honesty, and his medical plainness stands in sharp contrast to the rhetorical flourishes of the pulpit. He matters as a measuring stick: against his blunt integrity, Elmer's charm and Frank's wavering both look smaller.

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See Philip McGarry in chapter viii

Character Web

25 connections

A slice of how Philip McGarry sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.

Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Frank Shallard's circle
Elmer's early associates
Elmer's romantic interests
Minor characters and background figures

+20 more in the full Character Web

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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…

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In the story

Philip McGarry appears across 7 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

Chapter XXIII
Philip McGarry is a controversial, liberal Methodist minister known for his criticism of bishops and social institutions, and his emphasis on the leadership of Jesus.
VII
McGarry is a radical, outspoken minister of the Arbor Church who criticizes Hickenlooper's paternalism and social service approach; Elmer loathes him.
Chapter XXIV
Methodist pastor of Arbor Church in Zenith; friend of Frank, known for his sturdy cheerfulness and disdainful honesty.
II
Methodist pastor at Arbor Methodist Church, friend of Frank. He is open-minded about theology and helps sustain Frank's ministry through their friendship.
Chapter XXVIII
Defends the Methodist Church as a noble institution and argues for reforming from within, but is challenged by Frank for his own compromises and use of traditional religious language.
I
Defends the church as a necessary institution for teaching morality and preserving the unique teachings of Jesus, but is challenged by Frank on his use of theological language he doesn't fully believe.
I
Inadvertently reveals Frank's heresies to Elmer.

Chapter companion notes

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See Philip McGarry in chapter viii

See Philip McGarry in Chapter XXIII