Elmer Gantry · Question
How does Elmer Gantry develop the theme of Hypocrisy and Corruption in Religion?
Answer
Elmer Gantry by Sinclair Lewis develops Hypocrisy and Corruption in Religion across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The book relentlessly exposes the gap between Elmer Gantry's public piety and his private immorality, showing how he uses religion for personal gain, power, and indulgence while preaching virtue.
Elmer's outward religious conformity masks his inner lack of belief and moral laxity, highlighting the theme of hypocrisy.
Elmer's drunken bravado and Eddie's manipulative pressure highlight the gap between religious profession and personal conduct.
Elmer, a future evangelist, is introduced in a drunken, belligerent state, foreshadowing the hypocrisy between his later religious persona and his actual behavior.
Evidence in the book
- Elmer Gantry
Elmer's outward religious conformity masks his inner lack of belief and moral laxity, highlighting the theme of hypocrisy.
- Chapter I
Elmer's drunken bravado and Eddie's manipulative pressure highlight the gap between religious profession and personal conduct.
- I
Elmer, a future evangelist, is introduced in a drunken, belligerent state, foreshadowing the hypocrisy between his later religious persona and his actual behavior.
- II
Elmer's detestation of piety and admiration for drunkenness and profanity contrasts with his attendance at a religious college, highlighting hypocrisy.
- III
Eddie Fislinger, a pious Y.M.C.A. president, uses prayer meetings as a political tool, and Elmer's manipulation of the class election mirrors the corruption seen in religious institutions.
- VI
Elmer's drunken defense of Eddie and his subsequent flight from conversion highlight the hypocrisy of his religious posturing.
- Chapter II
Dr. Lefferts feigns piety to mock Eddie Fislinger, revealing the performative nature of religious expression.
- I
The chapter highlights the manipulative and self-serving piety of the college community, who celebrate Elmer's conversion while ignoring his true character, and the church's failure to instill genuine morality.
