Elmer Gantry · Character

Dr. Willoughby Quarles

The president of the small college Elmer attends.

minor

Also known as President Quarles

First appearance: chapter i

Dr. Willoughby Quarles shows up with force in IV. The page is where that presence becomes real.

President of Terwillinger College; a Baptist minister who avoids Jim's questions by insisting on prayer and spiritual guidance.

Dr. Willoughby Quarles first appears in 0003 chapter i.

In IV: President of Terwillinger College; a Baptist minister who avoids Jim's questions by insisting on prayer and spiritual guidance.

Later, in Chapter II: President Quarles shows approval of Elmer's conversion, greeting him warmly on the street.

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Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

Elmer’s public vindication through Hettie’s confession and the immediate offers of prestigious positions mark…

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Dr. Willoughby Quarles appears across 10 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

IV
President of Terwillinger College; a Baptist minister who avoids Jim's questions by insisting on prayer and spiritual guidance.
Chapter II
President Quarles shows approval of Elmer's conversion, greeting him warmly on the street.
I
President of Terwillinger College, who greets Elmer warmly after his conversion, calling him 'My Boy'.
Chapter III
President Quarles welcomes Elmer as a fellow apostle and arranges for him to speak at the Y.M.C.A. meeting.
IV
President of Terwillinger College who praises Elmer's conversion and pressures him to speak at the Y.M.C.A.
V
President Quarles calls for Elmer and departs with him.
VI
President of the college, observes Elmer's performance with delight, considering him a born preacher and a future leading prophet.
Chapter IV
President Quarles orchestrates the prayer meeting to help Elmer receive a Call, using manipulative and cloying methods that Elmer resents.
I
President Quarles urges Elmer to become a minister, suggesting it could bring glory to Terwillinger.
Chapter II
President Quarles organizes the prayer meeting and later accepts Elmer's false claim of receiving the Call.

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