Elmer Gantry

The novel features a charismatic evangelist whose rise within the church is marked by hypocrisy and indulgence, reflecting the moral contradictions of his time. Sinclair Lewis's portrayal captures the era's grotesque vulgarity, providing a critical commentary on American society. The book's provocative themes led to significant backlash upon its release, highlighting the tension between public piety and private vice. Through its complex characters and societal critique, it remains a significant work in American literature.