# Chapter XXIX explained — Elmer Gantry

> Chapter companion for Elmer Gantry by Sinclair Lewis.

## What happens

Elmer Gantry, with the help of T.J. Rigg, orchestrates a campaign against Frank Shallard, using Frank's liberal views to discredit him and lure wealthy deacon William Dollinger Styles away from his church. Frank is confronted by Elmer and his own deacons, admits his doubts about Christ's divinity, and faces a church trial, while Elmer and Rigg scheme to bring Styles into their congregation.

## Themes in this chapter

### Hypocrisy and Corruption in Religion

Elmer and Rigg manipulate church politics and use underhanded tactics to destroy Frank's career for personal gain.

### Faith vs. Skepticism

Frank's honest doubts about Christ's divinity and a personal God clash with Elmer's dogmatic certainty and the congregation's expectations.

### Manipulation and Showmanship in Evangelism

Elmer uses his public platform and personal charm to sway William Dollinger Styles and discredit Frank.

## Character check-ins

### Elmer Gantry

Orchestrates a campaign against Frank Shallard, using his heresies to attract William Dollinger Styles to his church.

### Frank Shallard

Publicly admits his doubts about Christ's divinity and a personal God, leading to a church trial.

### T. J. Rigg

Advises Elmer on how to exploit Frank's heresies and schemes to bring William Dollinger Styles to their church.

### William Dollinger Styles

Wealthy deacon who is courted by Elmer and Rigg, and turns against Frank after his confession.

### Bess Shallard

Frank's wife, who wearily suggests he resign to avoid trouble.

### Mr. Pengilly

Sends a letter to Frank urging him to stand true and not abandon his flock.

## Key lines

> I was awfully sorry, Mr. Styles, to feel it my duty to jump on your pastor, Mr. Shallard, last Sunday, but when a fellow stands up and makes fun of Jesus Christ—well, it's time to forget mercy!

Elmer feigns regret for attacking Frank, justifying it as a necessary defense of Christ.

_Elmer uses false piety to manipulate Styles._

> Why don't you just resign before we kick you out?

Styles tells Frank to leave the ministry voluntarily to avoid being forced out.

_Styles turns against Frank after his confession._

> I've done nothing for which to resign! I've led a thoroughly decent life. I haven't lied or been indecent or stolen. I've preached imagination, happiness, justice, seeking for the truth.

Frank insists he has no reason to resign, as he has lived ethically and preached positive values.

_Frank defends his integrity against the accusations._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/chapter-xxix
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/elmer_gantry_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters