"The Model Millionaire" by Oscar Wilde: a Report

Introduction

"The Model Millionaire" is a captivating short story written by Oscar Wilde, originally published as part of the collection "Lord Arthur Savile's Crime and Other Stories" in 1891. This third-person narrative presents a thought-provoking exploration of themes like wealth, generosity, and the unpredictable twists of fate. The story unfolds with a rich blend of wit and irony, characteristic of Wilde's literary style.

Author's Background

Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde (1854 – 1900) was a multifaceted literary figure known for his contributions as a playwright, novelist, poet, and critic.

His works were marked by sharp wit, intelligence, sarcasm, irony, and paradoxical viewpoints, establishing his unique and admired style. Born in Dublin, Wilde hailed from a family with literary inclinations. His mother, Lady Jane Francesca Wilde (1820-1896), was a successful poet, journalist, and a renowned society hostess. This familial background, coupled with his immersion in high society, greatly influenced Wilde's perceptions of aristocracy and the nature of the upper echelons of society.

Wilde pursued his education at Oxford, where he began to develop his poetic skills and refine his ideas.

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It was during his time at Oxford that he became acquainted with the Aesthetic movement, whose central tenet, "Art for Art's Sake," left an indelible mark on his literary works. His literary repertoire included nine plays, with "The Importance of Being Earnest" (1895) being one of the most renowned and critically acclaimed. Additionally, he penned numerous poems, short stories, and essays. Notably, his novel "The Picture of Dorian Gray" (1891) drew both praise and controversy, owing to perceived homoerotic undertones that challenged the conservative norms of the time.

Wilde's personal life was marked by scandal, primarily due to his sexuality. In 1891, he initiated a romantic relationship with Lord Alfred Douglas, nicknamed 'Bosie,' the son of an aristocrat and the love of his life. This affair led to the dissolution of his marriage to Constance Lloyd two years later. Wilde's sexual orientation eventually led to his arrest in 1895, where he faced charges of homosexuality, gross indecency, and sodomy. Following a two-year incarceration, he authored "The Ballad of Reading Gaol" (1898), a powerful poem describing the deplorable conditions he and fellow inmates endured. With a tarnished reputation, Wilde died in relative poverty in a modest Parisian hotel, succumbing to cerebral meningitis.

Summary of the Story

"The Model Millionaire" revolves around the life of Hughie Erskine, a remarkably handsome man with limited financial resources and intellect. Despite his striking appearance, Hughie's lack of wealth seems to overshadow his charm. The story opens with a poignant reflection: "Unless one is wealthy, there is no use in being a charming person. The poor should be ordinary and practical." These initial lines set the tone for a narrative that delves into the complexities of society's values and priorities.

Hughie harbors a deep affection for Laura Merton, but her father, while fond of Hughie, is adamant about their inability to sustain a marriage due to financial constraints. The former army officer, Mr. Merton, consents to their union only if Hughie can amass ten thousand pounds. This seemingly insurmountable financial hurdle becomes the driving force behind Hughie's quest for success.

Amidst his struggles, Hughie forms a close friendship with Alan Trevor, a talented artist with a penchant for the unconventional. Trevor, initially drawn to Hughie's extraordinary physical beauty, later becomes captivated by his genuine kindness. In Trevor's studio, the story takes an unexpected turn when Hughie encounters a beggar. This beggar serves as Trevor's model, embodying a destitute figure with tattered clothing, a weary countenance, and a humble demeanor.

Touched by the beggar's wretched appearance and the meager income he would earn as Trevor's model, Hughie impulsively offers the man one pound, a substantial portion of his own limited funds. The beggar, silently conveying his gratitude, accepts the generous donation. Hughie departs from Trevor's studio, his cheeks flushed with emotion, choosing to walk home due to his depleted finances.

That night, Trevor recounts the encounter to Hughie, revealing that the beggar had developed a fondness for him and inquired about his life, including his love for Laura and the impediments to their marriage. Hughie, feeling uneasy about his impulsive act of charity, learns the startling truth: the beggar is none other than Baron Hausberg, one of the wealthiest men in Europe. Stunned by this revelation, Hughie is wracked with embarrassment and self-reproach.

Trevor, however, finds humor in the situation, assuring Hughie that Baron Hausberg was pleased by his compassionate gesture and expressed a genuine interest in him. Despite Trevor's attempts to alleviate his friend's distress, Hughie remains haunted by his perceived foolishness. He resolves to return home, his thoughts consumed by the day's events.

The following morning, Hughie receives an unexpected visitor in the form of Mr. Gustave Naudin, Baron Hausberg's representative. Overwhelmed by anxiety, Hughie immediately begins to apologize, fearing that he may have offended the nobleman. Mr. Naudin, however, offers him a letter from Baron Hausberg. Inscribed on the envelope are the words, 'A wedding present from an old beggar.' Within the letter, Hughie discovers a cheque for ten thousand pounds, an astonishing act of generosity from the wealthy Baron.

Main Characters

1. Hughie Erskine: The central character of the story, Hughie is a strikingly handsome young man. Despite his good looks, he is burdened by poverty and limited intelligence. His love for Laura Merton drives him to seek financial success, setting the story's events in motion.

2. Alan Trevor: A talented artist and Hughie's close friend, Alan Trevor plays a pivotal role in the narrative. Initially drawn to Hughie's physical beauty, he later appreciates Hughie's genuine kindness and compassion. Trevor's studio serves as the backdrop for significant events in the story.

3. The Beggar (Baron Hausberg): The beggar, initially portrayed as a destitute and weary figure, is revealed to be Baron Hausberg, one of the wealthiest men in Europe. This character serves as a catalyst for the story's unexpected turn of events, highlighting themes of generosity and appearances versus reality.

Conclusion

"The Model Millionaire" by Oscar Wilde offers readers a thought-provoking exploration of societal values, wealth, and the unpredictability of fate. The story's clever narrative and memorable characters make it a timeless piece of literature. While the narrative ultimately concludes on a positive note, with Hughie receiving a generous gift from Baron Hausberg, it subtly underscores the importance of luck and financial fortune in society. Hughie's genuine kindness and good heart may have gone unnoticed without the fortuitous encounter with the beggar-turned-millionaire.

Oscar Wilde's characteristic wit and irony are evident throughout the story, adding depth to the narrative. "The Model Millionaire" serves as a reminder that acts of compassion and generosity can lead to unexpected rewards, even in a society that often values wealth above all else. Wilde's ability to blend humor and social commentary makes this short story a compelling and enduring work of literature.