The Model Millionaire

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Questions and Answers

What does Hughie express regret about regarding his actions?

Not telling Alan about his intentions.

Failing to impress Maison Hausberg.

Giving money to an unattractive woman. (correct)

Not dressing appropriately for his meeting.

How does Hughie feel about his encounter with the Baron Hausberg?

Proud and accomplished.

Indifferent and apathetic.

Excited and joyful.

Embarrassed and unhappy. (correct)

What was the purpose of Monsieur Gustave Naudin's visit to Hughie?

To discuss an investment opportunity.

To demand an apology from Hughie.

To deliver a wedding gift from the Baron. (correct)

To offer financial advice.

What was written on the envelope that Monsieur Naudin presented to Hughie?

A wedding present note from an old beggar. Signup and view all the answers

What amount was included in the cheque that Hughie received?

£10,000 Signup and view all the answers

How did Alan Trevor react to Hughie's situation with the Baron Hausberg?

He found it amusing and laughed at the situation. Signup and view all the answers

How does Trevor describe the character of the model millionaires?

Rarer than usual due to their philanthropic nature. Signup and view all the answers

What character trait does Hughie display through his actions?

Philanthropy Signup and view all the answers

What was Hughie's initial assumption about Gustave Naudin's visit?

He would have to apologize. Signup and view all the answers

What does Hughie feel he should do after his encounter with the Baron Hausberg?

Go to bed and hide. Signup and view all the answers

What initially attracted Trevor to Hughie?

Hughie's personal charm Signup and view all the answers

How much does the beggar-man model get paid for sitting?

One shilling per hour Signup and view all the answers

What does Hughie offer to do for the beggar-man after feeling pity for him?

Donate old clothes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes Trevor's view of the beggar's appearance?

He thinks the rags add to the beauty of the art. Signup and view all the answers

What was Hughie's reaction upon learning the true identity of the beggar-man?

Embarrassment for giving him money Signup and view all the answers

What is Trevor's profession?

A painter Signup and view all the answers

How does Trevor refer to the beggar-man while discussing him with Hughie?

As a living Velasquez Signup and view all the answers

What was the value of the commission Trevor received to paint the beggar-man?

An unspecified amount Signup and view all the answers

What does Trevor imply is the focus of an artist's work?

To depict the world as they see it Signup and view all the answers

What does Hughie think about the treatment of the beggar by artists?

It lacks empathy and is heartless. Signup and view all the answers

What does the author imply about romance and wealth?

Wealthy individuals have the privilege of romance. Signup and view all the answers

How is Hughie Erskine described in relation to his intellect?

He was not intellectually important. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary source of Hughie's income?

An allowance from an aunt. Signup and view all the answers

What was Hughie's relationship with Laura Merton's father?

He required Hughie to have financial security first. Signup and view all the answers

Which profession did Hughie NOT attempt?

Real estate agent. Signup and view all the answers

How is Alan Trevor characterized as an artist?

He was a master painter despite his rough appearance. Signup and view all the answers

What does Hughie's descriptive appearance suggest about him?

His looks compensated for his lack of wealth. Signup and view all the answers

What challenge did Hughie face when pursuing a career?

He found it difficult to maintain focus on any job. Signup and view all the answers

What does Hughie's lifestyle indicate about his social status?

He led a simple life due to financial constraints. Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'delightful, ineffectual young man' convey about Hughie's character?

He was charming but lacked effectiveness or ambition. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Character Analysis: Hughie Erskine

Hughie Erskine is an attractive but financially struggling young man with no profession or way to earn a living.
He lives on a small annual allowance from an aunt, illustrating his dependence on others for support.
Despite his good looks and charm, he lacks intellectual depth and practical skills, which contribute to his ineffectiveness in society.

Setting and Context

The narrative takes place in London, highlighting social class distinctions and the privilege of wealth in romantic pursuits.
The character struggles with the reality that financial stability is necessary for romantic success, as emphasized by Colonel Merton's expectations for Hughie to have £10,000 before marrying his daughter.

Key Relationships

Hughie is deeply in love with Laura Merton, the Colonel’s daughter, showcasing a romantic connection hindered by financial constraints.
Alan Trevor, a successful painter, serves as a friend and mentor to Hughie, representing the artistic community's perspective on beauty and worth.

Themes of Wealth and Charity

The story contrasts wealth and poverty, illustrated by Hughie's encounter with a beggar who is later revealed to be the wealthy Baron Hausberg.
Acts of kindness are explored, as Hughie selflessly gives a sovereign to the beggar, believing he is aiding the less fortunate.

The Twist: Baron Hausberg

Baron Hausberg, initially disguised as a beggar, is actually a powerful millionaire who values Hughie's character and generosity.
The turning point occurs when Hughie discovers that his charitable act leads to a generous wedding gift of £10,000, subverting his expectations about wealth and support.

Artistic Perspective

Alan Trevor embodies the role of the artist who finds elegance and potential beauty even in poverty, highlighting differing values between social classes.
The dialogue underscores the notion that artists often perceive life through an aesthetic lens rather than a moralistic one.

Conclusion: Redemption and Irony

The narrative concludes with the irony of Hughie’s initial folly becoming a blessing, as his kindness results in unexpected wealth.
The story ultimately celebrates the complexity of human relationships and the unpredictable nature of fortune, particularly regarding love and social status.

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Description

Explore the themes of wealth and romance in the context of Hughie Erskine's life. This quiz analyzes the notion that charm and attraction are privileges of the affluent. Delve into how social status shapes personal relationships and perspectives on life.