# How does Elmer Gantry develop the theme of Ambition and the Pursuit of Power?

> Elmer Gantry by Sinclair Lewis

## Answer

Elmer Gantry by Sinclair Lewis develops Ambition and the Pursuit of Power across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.

Elmer's relentless drive for status, wealth, and influence drives the plot, as he climbs from a small-town drunk to a nationally recognized religious leader, often at the expense of integrity.

Elmer dreams of using his voice to hold and shake an audience, and plans to become a lawyer by charming juries rather than studying.

Elmer's relentless drive for class presidency, achieved through threats and intimidation, exemplifies his pursuit of power and dominance over others.

Elmer is drawn to the ministry by the prospect of fame, influence, and oratorical control over audiences, seeing it as a path to dominance.

## Evidence

- [ii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/ii.md): Elmer dreams of using his voice to hold and shake an audience, and plans to become a lawyer by charming juries rather than studying.
- [iii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/iii.md): Elmer's relentless drive for class presidency, achieved through threats and intimidation, exemplifies his pursuit of power and dominance over others.
- [chapter-iv](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/chapter-iv.md): Elmer is drawn to the ministry by the prospect of fame, influence, and oratorical control over audiences, seeing it as a path to dominance.
- [i](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/i.md): Elmer is drawn to the ministry for its social position, applause, and potential for wealth, viewing it as a career of influence.
- [chapter-v](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/chapter-v.md): Elmer's ambition is clear as he prepares for a lucrative career, envisioning himself as a 'ten-thousand-dollar seer' and mastering the art of persuasive speech.
- [i](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/i.md): Elmer sees the appointment as a chance to prove himself and gain influence, contrasting his worldly ambition with the dean's spiritual rhetoric.
- [ii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/ii.md): Elmer relishes his power over the audience, feels expansive, and sees his ministry as a path to influence and success.
- [chapter-x](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/chapter-x.md): Elmer eagerly accepts the opportunity to preach in Monarch, seeing it as a stepping stone to a larger church and greater influence, reflecting his ambition.

## Links

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