Elmer Gantry · Question
How does Elmer Gantry develop the theme of Faith vs. Skepticism?
Answer
Elmer Gantry by Sinclair Lewis develops Faith vs. Skepticism across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The book contrasts genuine belief (represented by characters like Frank Shallard) with Elmer's cynical exploitation of faith, and includes debates on atheism, science, and biblical literalism.
Jim Lefferts embodies intellectual skepticism, challenging biblical literalism and the authority of religious leaders, while Elmer is caught between fear of damnation and attraction to doubt.
Elmer's internal conflict between his fear of religion and his skepticism is evident as he grapples with Eddie's appeals.
The chapter contrasts Jim Lefferts' skeptical arguments with the fervent faith of Eddie and the college community.
Evidence in the book
- IV
Jim Lefferts embodies intellectual skepticism, challenging biblical literalism and the authority of religious leaders, while Elmer is caught between fear of damnation and attraction to doubt.
- VI
Elmer's internal conflict between his fear of religion and his skepticism is evident as he grapples with Eddie's appeals.
- Chapter II
The chapter contrasts Jim Lefferts' skeptical arguments with the fervent faith of Eddie and the college community.
- I
The tension between Elmer's religious upbringing and Jim Lefferts' skeptical influence, with Elmer caught between genuine belief and the pressure to conform.
- II
Elmer's internal conflict between his mother's devout faith and his own skepticism and worldly desires.
- III
The chapter dramatizes the clash between Eddie's literalist faith and the Lefferts' skeptical rationalism, with Elmer caught in the middle.
- Chapter III
Elmer's conversion is immediately followed by doubt and self-questioning, contrasting his emotional experience with Jim's skeptical rationalism.
- I
The chapter contrasts Jim Lefferts' cynical skepticism with Elmer's growing openness to faith, driven by Roberts' persuasive techniques.
