Class and Social Climbing

Where it surfaces

• II

  Mrs. Gantry dreams of Elmer's future success and social elevation, imagining him with a famous church and a summer cottage.

• Chapter VI

  The dinner setting and the expectation that clergy be 'instructive' while enjoying hospitality illustrate the social dynamics and pressures of rural religious life.

• V

  Elmer and Sharon bond over their humble origins, contrasting with Cecil's refined demeanor, underscoring class tensions within the religious movement.

• Chapter XII

  Sharon's invented Falconer identity and the Virginia plantation setting highlight the theme of constructed aristocracy and social aspiration.

• Chapter II

  Frank notes that the church's membership consists largely of the ignorant and the respectable, while skilled workmen and professionals stay away, highlighting class divisions in religious participation.

• II

  The bishop's residence in Devon Woods, with its imitation half-timbering and eclectic decor, signals a desire to appear cultured and refined, typical of the next-to-the-best professional class.

• Chapter XIX

  Elmer's disappointment at the lack of a grand reception and his assessment of Banjo Crossing's rustic simplicity highlight his social aspirations and class consciousness.

• I

  Elmer's disdain for the rustic village and his sense of fallen status after the 'mounting glory with Sharon' reflect his preoccupation with social standing.

• IV

  Elmer is drawn to the Benhams' wealth and status, seeing Cleo and their mansion as symbols of a desirable future.

• VII

  Elmer's gratitude for acceptance and security reflects his social ascent within the church community.

• III

  Elmer's marriage to Cleo is partly motivated by her father's prosperity, and the wedding's lavishness underscores social aspirations.

• Chapter XXII

  Elmer assesses the neighborhood's potential for upward mobility before accepting the church, showing his concern for social status.

• Chapter II

  Elmer is impressed by the Riggses' limousine and wealth, and he deliberately cultivates relationships with prosperous members like Mr. Apfelmus, showing his ambition to rise socially.

• IV

  Elmer deliberately cultivates a front to impress the 'Big Bugs' of Zenith, spending money on furniture and clothes to project an image of success despite his humble church.

• II

  The contrast between Frank's humble Dorchester congregation and the wealthier downtown churches, and Bess's pragmatic acceptance of Elmer's check for material comfort.

• I

  Elmer cultivates relationships with the Young Married Set and T. J. Rigg to advance his social standing and gather useful information about wealthy contributors.

• I

  Elmer's efforts to elevate his social status are central, as he seeks acceptance among the upper class through strategic networking and adopting dignified behavior, guided by T. J. Rigg's advice.

• IX

  Elmer criticizes English caste system while asserting American superiority, revealing his own social climbing and insecurity.

• Elmer and Cleo in London

  Elmer's discomfort with the formal, reserved English service and his need to assert his American identity reflect his insecurity about social status and his desire to feel superior.