top of page

"The Model Millionaire" - A Timeless Tale of Generosity and Unexpected Fortunes

Alan Trevor

Step into the world of Oscar Wilde's captivating short story, "The Model Millionaire," where appearances deceive and acts of generosity lead to unforeseen fortunes. Immerse yourself in the narrative that follows the life of Hughie Erskine, a young man whose charm and good looks belie his financial struggles.

As Hughie navigates the challenges of love and societal expectations, the story takes a surprising turn when he encounters a beggar on the streets of London. Unbeknownst to Hughie, this beggar is none other than Baron Hausberg, a millionaire posing for a portrait in tattered rags. Wilde weaves a tale of irony, emphasizing that true nobility lies in selfless acts, even when appearances are deceiving.

Explore the profound social commentary embedded in Wilde's narrative, where the author plays with language and syntax to underscore the story's underlying messages. "The Model Millionaire" challenges societal norms, questioning the value we place on wealth and our superficial judgments based on appearances.

Experience the humour and wit for which Oscar Wilde is renowned, as he takes you on a journey through the unexpected consequences of Hughie's generosity. Delve into the complexities of relationships, societal expectations, and the power dynamics between the wealthy and the less fortunate.

In the end, "The Model Millionaire" leaves readers with a poignant lesson about the nature of kindness and the unpredictable twists of fate. Wilde's timeless narrative showcases his mastery of storytelling, social critique, and the art of infusing humour into the exploration of human behaviour.

Discover or rediscover this classic work that resonates with audiences, inviting reflection on the true meaning of wealth, generosity, and the unpredictable pathways to a fulfilling life.

Summary

Hughie Erskine with the beggar

"The Model Millionaire" is a short story written by Oscar Wilde. Wilde (1854-1900) was an Irish poet and one of the most popular playwrights in London during the early 1890s. He is best remembered for his wit and clever use of language, often incorporating social commentary and satire into his works.

The story revolves around the central character, Hughie Erskine, a young man who, despite lacking financial success, is known for his good looks and charm. Hughie falls in love with Laura Merton, the daughter of a retired Colonel who refuses to approve of their engagement until Hughie has amassed a substantial fortune.

The narrative takes an ironic turn when Hughie encounters a beggar who, unbeknownst to him, is Baron Hausberg, one of Europe's wealthiest socialites. The Baron has commissioned a portrait where he poses as a beggar, dressed in rags. Hughie, feeling sympathetic, gives the beggar a sovereign, unaware of the man's true identity.

The story explores themes of generosity, the superficial nature of appearances, and the unexpected outcomes of seemingly selfless acts. Wilde plays with the juxtaposition of the terms 'model-millionaire' and 'millionaire-model,' highlighting the power of syntax and emphasizing the goodness of Hughie's character.

Ultimately, Baron Hausberg, appreciating Hughie's generosity, presents him with a wedding gift—a cheque for £10,000—allowing Hughie to marry Laura. The story concludes with a touch of irony, showcasing Wilde's penchant for social commentary and his ability to infuse humour and satire into his narratives.

Analytical Summary of "The Model Millionaire" by Oscar Wilde

Baron Hausberg

Introduction: "The Model Millionaire" is a short story by Oscar Wilde, which encapsulates themes of appearance versus reality, the virtue of generosity, and the ironies of life. Wilde's hallmark wit and clever use of language are evident throughout the narrative.

Plot Overview: The story centres around Hughie Erskine, a charming but financially struggling young man who unwittingly gives a sovereign to a beggar. This beggar, however, is not a beggar at all but Baron Hauberg, one of Europe’s wealthiest men, disguised for a portrait commissioned from his friend, the painter Alan Trevor. Hughie’s act of kindness leads to an unexpected and substantial reward, highlighting the unpredictable outcomes of genuine generosity.

Characters:

  1. Hughie Erskine: The protagonist, described as good-looking and charming but without a stable income. His lack of practicality contrasts with his kind-hearted nature.

  2. Alan Trevor: A successful artist and Hughie’s friend, who appreciates beauty and charm both in art and in people.

  3. Baron Hauberg: A wealthy baron disguised as a beggar for a portrait, who becomes the beneficiary of Hughie’s generosity.

Themes:

  1. Appearance vs. Reality: The central irony of the story revolves around the mistaken identity of Baron Hauberg. Hughie’s assumption about the beggar’s poverty and his subsequent revelation highlight the disparity between appearances and reality.

  2. Generosity and Kindness: Hughie’s spontaneous act of charity, despite his own financial difficulties, underscores the virtue of selfless giving. Wilde suggests that true nobility lies in acts of kindness without expecting anything in return.

  3. Irony: Wilde employs irony to deliver both humor and social commentary. Hughie’s donation to a wealthy man is an unexpected twist, and the baron’s generous wedding gift further accentuates this irony.

  4. Social Commentary: Through characters like Hughie and the retired Colonel Merton, Wilde critiques the societal emphasis on wealth as a prerequisite for romance and marriage.

Narrative Style: Wilde’s narrative style is marked by wit, vivid descriptions, and engaging dialogue. His use of humour and irony not only entertains but also deepens the thematic impact of the story.

Conclusion: "The Model Millionaire" is a charming tale that encapsulates Wilde's critique of social norms and his celebration of human kindness. Hughie’s unexpected windfall from Baron Hausberg’s disguised benevolence serves as a reminder that true generosity often yields its own rewards in unforeseen ways. The story’s playful yet poignant narrative leaves readers reflecting on the virtues of kindness and the deceptive nature of appearances.

MCQ’S

Alan Trevor

1.     What is the central theme of Oscar Wilde's short story "The Model Millionaire"?

a)     The pursuit of wealth and material success

b)     The value of generosity and charity

c)     The challenges of being a struggling artist

d)     The importance of a well-crafted portrait

 

2.     In the story, Hughie Erskine is best described as:

a)     A wealthy aristocrat

b)     A struggling artist

c)     An exceptionally talented painter

d)     A good-looking young man without a profession

 

3.     Who turns out to be the beggar in the story who receives a sovereign from Hughie?

a)     A homeless man

b)     A famous artist

c)     Baron Hausberg

d)     Alan Trevor

 

4.     What does Hughie offer to the beggar, thinking he is in need?

a)     A job as his assistant

b)     A sovereign

c)     A generous wedding present

d)     Old clothes to help improve his appearance

 

5.     The story emphasizes the idea that:

a)     Wealth and appearance are always correlated

b)     Generosity should be rewarded with material gain

c)     The act of charity without expecting anything in return is noble

d)     The poor should prioritize being charming over practicality

 

6.     What is the significance of the title "The Model Millionaire"?

a)     It suggests the story is about a wealthy model.

b)     It hints at the contrast between appearances and reality.

c)     It refers to a model who becomes a millionaire.

d)     It highlights the importance of good looks in success.

 

7.     What profession does Hughie try before becoming a "delightful, ineffectual young man"?

a)     Stockbroker

b)     Tea-merchant

c)     Artist

d)     Physician

 

8.     Why does Baron Hausberg commission Alan Trevor to paint him as a beggar?

a)     To raise awareness about homelessness

b)     To play a prank on Hughie

c)     To make a political statement

d)     To test Trevor's artistic skills

 

9.     How does Hughie react when he realizes he gave a sovereign to Baron Hausberg?

a)     He laughs it off as a funny mistake.

b)     He is relieved that the beggar is wealthy.

c)     He feels embarrassed and sulkily leaves.

d)     He demands his money back from Baron Hausberg.

 

10.  What is the genre of "The Model Millionaire"?

a)     Mystery

b)     Romance

c)     Comedy

d)     Satire

 

11.  What does Alan Trevor do for a living?

a)     Stock trading

b)     Tea-merchant

c)     Painting

d)     Sherry sales

 

12.  How does Trevor react to Hughie's act of kindness towards the beggar?

a)     He is touched by Hughie's generosity.

b)     He scolds Hughie for giving away money.

c)     He tells Hughie to do more for the poor.

d)     He laughs and finds it amusing.

 

13.  What is the significance of the phrase "model millionaires" in the story?

a)     It refers to wealthy artists.

b)     It highlights the importance of good looks in success.

c)     It reflects the contrast between appearances and reality.

d)     It suggests that millionaires can become successful models.

 

14.  Who rewards Hughie with a generous wedding present in the story?

a)     Alan Trevor

b)     Laura Merton

c)     Baron Hausberg

d)     The Colonel

 

15.  What lesson does "The Model Millionaire" teach about wealth and charity?

a)     Wealth is essential for happiness.

b)     Charity should always be reciprocated.

c)     The act of giving without expecting rewards is noble.

d)     Wealth leads to a more fascinating and charming life.

 

16.  What is the primary message of the story's ending with the wedding present?

a)     Appearances can be deceiving.

b)     Wealth is the key to happiness.

c)     Generosity is always rewarded.

d)     Romance and love triumph over poverty.

 

17.  How does Baron Hausberg respond when he learns about Hughie's generosity?

a)     He laughs at Hughie's actions.

b)     He becomes angry and demands more.

c)     He rewards Hughie with a wedding present.

d)     He ignores the situation entirely.

 

18.  What character traits are attributed to Hughie Erskine in the story?

a)     Clever and resourceful

b)     Generous and compassionate

c)     Wealthy and successful

d)     Ill-natured and arrogant

 

19.  What does Trevor create a painting of in his studio?

a)     A landscape

b)     A beggar-man

c)     A still life

d)     A portrait of Hughie

 

20.  What does the story highlight regarding the roles of artists and their subjects?

a)     Artists should only paint attractive subjects.

b)     Artists should paint subjects realistically, whether they are wealthy or not.

c)     Artists are primarily focused on making money.

d)     Subjects play no role in an artist's success.

Character Analysis of "The Model Millionaire" by Oscar Wilde

 

 

 

 

 

​

Hughie Erskine: Hughie Erskine is the protagonist of the story. He is described as a handsome and charming young man with a kind heart, but he lacks financial stability and practical skills. Hughie is not particularly intelligent or successful, as evidenced by his failed attempts in various professions like the Stock Exchange, tea-merchant, and sherry salesman. Despite his financial struggles, Hughie is generous, as demonstrated when he gives a sovereign to a beggar he encounters in his friend Alan Trevor's studio. This act of kindness, though misguided, ultimately leads to his reward. Hughie's love for Laura Merton drives much of his actions, highlighting his earnest and sincere nature.

​​​​​​​​​​

​

​

​

​

​

​​

​

​

Alan Trevor: Alan Trevor is a successful painter and a close friend of Hughie. He is depicted as a rough-looking man with a freckled face and a red ragged beard, but his artistic talent makes him highly regarded in his field. Trevor is pragmatic and appreciates beauty in both art and people, which initially attracts him to Hughie. Although he can be somewhat cynical and pragmatic, he also cares for Hughie and supports him. Trevor's casual disclosure of Hughie's personal life to Baron Hausberg, thinking it harmless, sets the stage for the story's ironic twist.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​​​​

Baron Hausberg: Baron Hausberg is a wealthy and influential European aristocrat who disguises himself as a beggar to serve as a model for Alan Trevor’s painting. Despite his immense wealth, Hausberg appears humble and approachable, a stark contrast to his real-life status. His reaction to Hughie’s charitable act is one of amusement and generosity. He sends Hughie a wedding gift of ten thousand pounds, effectively changing Hughie's fortunes and allowing him to marry Laura Merton. Hausberg's actions reflect his appreciation for genuine kindness and his willingness to reward it generously.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Laura Merton: Laura Merton is Hughie's beloved, described as beautiful and adored by him. She is the daughter of a retired colonel and shares Hughie's financial struggles. Despite her love for Hughie, their relationship faces obstacles due to her father's insistence on Hughie securing a substantial income before he can marry her. Laura's character represents the ideal Victorian woman, supportive and loving, but constrained by societal and familial expectations.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Colonel Merton: Colonel Merton is Laura’s father, a retired military man who has lost both his temper and his digestion in India. He likes Hughie but is adamant that he must have a sufficient income before he can marry Laura. The colonel’s insistence on financial security reflects the societal norms of the time, where marriage was often contingent on economic stability.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Minor Characters:

  • Monsieur Gustave Naudin: An old gentleman with gold spectacles and grey hair, who serves as Baron Hausberg's representative. He delivers the letter and cheque to Hughie, revealing the baron’s generosity.

These characters collectively bring out the central themes of the story, including the deceptive nature of appearances, the virtue of generosity, and the societal emphasis on wealth. Wilde’s characterization is vivid and detailed, adding depth to the narrative and enhancing its moral and humorous undertones.

Hughie Erskine
Alan Trevor
Baron Hausberg
Laura Merton
Colonel Merton
• Monsieur Gustave Naudin

Themes in "The Model Millionaire" by Oscar Wilde

  1. Appearance vs. Reality: The central irony of the story revolves around the mistaken identity of Baron Hausberg. Hughie’s assumption about the beggar’s poverty and his subsequent revelation highlight the disparity between appearances and reality. The beggar, who is actually one of Europe’s wealthiest men, challenges the characters’ and readers’ perceptions of wealth and status. This theme is vividly illustrated through the contrast between the beggar’s outward appearance and his true identity as a millionaire, showing that appearances can be deceptive.

  2. Generosity and Kindness: Hughie’s spontaneous act of charity, despite his own financial difficulties, underscores the virtue of selfless giving. Wilde suggests that true nobility lies in acts of kindness without expecting anything in return. Hughie’s decision to give the beggar his last sovereign, despite needing the money himself, exemplifies his generous nature. This act of kindness, though seemingly insignificant and misguided, ultimately leads to a substantial reward, emphasizing the inherent value of generosity.

  3. Irony: Wilde employs irony to deliver both humor and social commentary. Hughie’s donation to a wealthy man is an unexpected twist that forms the crux of the story’s humor and irony. The irony is further accentuated by the baron’s generous wedding gift to Hughie, which turns his act of charity into a fortuitous event. This use of irony not only entertains but also serves to critique societal norms and highlight the unexpected consequences of seemingly simple actions.

  4. Social Commentary: Through characters like Hughie and the retired Colonel Merton, Wilde critiques the societal emphasis on wealth as a prerequisite for romance and marriage. The colonel’s insistence that Hughie must secure a substantial income before marrying Laura reflects the rigid social expectations of the time. Wilde uses this to comment on the superficiality of valuing wealth over character and love. Hughie’s ultimate reward serves as a critique of these societal norms, suggesting that kindness and integrity are of greater value than financial status.

Here are twenty fill-in-the-blank sentences with single words:

  1. Oscar Wilde was a renowned Irish __________ and playwright.

  2. In "The Model Millionaire," Hughie Erskine helps a beggar who turns out to be a __________.

  3. Appearances can be __________, as the beggar is revealed to be wealthy.

  4. Hughie Erskine was a charming but __________ young man.

  5. Hughie's father bequeathed him a cavalry sword and a History of the __________ War.

  6. Hughie tried his luck on the Stock Exchange but didn't fit in with the __________ there.

  7. He also attempted a career as a __________ merchant and selling dry sherry.

  8. Alan Trevor, a painter and artist, took a liking to Hughie because of his personal __________.

  9. Trevor was working on a life-size portrait of a __________ in his studio.

  10. The beggar in Trevor's studio wore a coarse brown cloak and had a piteous __________.

  11. Hughie couldn't find much money in his pockets, just a sovereign and some __________.

  12. Hughie thought the beggar's rags were falling to __________.

  13. Hughie decided to slip a __________ into the beggar's hand.

  14. Trevor told the beggar, who turned out to be Baron Hausberg, all about Hughie's __________.

  15. Baron Hausberg gifted Hughie and Laura Merton with a wedding __________.

  16. The story of "The Model Millionaire" emphasizes the __________ of charity without expecting anything in return.

  17. Hughie was embarrassed and left Trevor's studio __________.

  18. Alan Trevor was known for being a __________ artist.

  19. Hughie believed that the poor should be __________ and practical.

  20. In the end, the story highlights the idea that __________ and goodness matter more than wealth.

Reference to the context

Question 1.

​

"What an amazing model!' whispered Hughie, as he shook

 hands with his friend.

 An amazing model?' shouted Trevor at the top of his voice; 'I

 should think so! Such beggars as he are not to be met with every day. A living Velasquez! My stars! what an etching Rembrandt

 Would have made of him!'

'Poor old chap! said Hughie, 'how miserable he looks! But I

 suppose, to you painters, his face is his fortune?'

 'Certainly,' replied Trevor, 'you don't want a beggar to look

 happy, do you?' "

 

Here are some context-based questions related to the provided excerpt from the text:

  1. In the context of the passage, why does Alan Trevor refer to the beggar as "a living Velasquez" and mention Rembrandt?

  2. What does Trevor's enthusiastic reaction reveal about his perspective as an artist?

  3. How does Hughie perceive the beggar's appearance, and what is his concern regarding the beggar's demeanour?

  4. Based on the passage, what significance does Trevor place on the expression of the beggar in his portrait?

  5. How do Trevor and Hughie's views on the beggar's facial expression reflect their respective perspectives on art and life?

 

..........................................................................................

Answers

  1. Alan Trevor refers to the beggar as "a living Velasquez" and mentions Rembrandt to emphasize the beggar's extraordinary appearance and the potential artistic value of his unique features. Velasquez and Rembrandt were renowned artists known for their ability to capture the depth and character of their subjects in their paintings. Trevor's comparison highlights the beggar's striking and artistic facial qualities.

  2. Trevor's enthusiastic reaction reveals that he highly values the beggar as a model for his art. As an artist, he is excited by the beggar's distinctive appearance and sees him as an exceptional subject for a painting. Trevor's enthusiasm underlines his belief that artists should seek out subjects who are aesthetically interesting and possess depth, even if they don't conform to conventional standards of beauty.

  3. Hughie perceives the beggar as miserable and is concerned about his well-being. He comments on the beggar's unhappy appearance, suggesting that he looks destitute and wretched. Hughie's concern stems from his compassion for the beggar's apparent suffering, which contrasts with Trevor's artistic appreciation of the beggar's expression.

  4. Based on the passage, Trevor places great significance on the expression of the beggar in his portrait. He values the beggar's appearance precisely because of his unhappy and destitute expression. Trevor believes that such an expression adds depth and character to the portrait, making it more artistically valuable.

  5. Trevor's view of the beggar's facial expression reflects his perspective as an artist. He believes that capturing the essence and emotions of a subject, even if it's a beggar, is essential for creating meaningful and aesthetically valuable art. In contrast, Hughie's view reflects his empathy and concern for the beggar's well-being, highlighting the different priorities of an artist and a compassionate individual. Trevor values the beggar's expression for its artistic potential, while Hughie is more focused on the beggar's actual feelings and suffering.

 

 

 

Reference to the context:

 

Question 2

​

'Gave him a sovereign!' shouted Trevor, and he burst into a

 roar of laughter. 'My dear boy, you'll never see it again.'

 'I think you might have told me, Alan,' said Hughie sulkily,

 'and not have let me make such a fool of myself.'

'Well, to begin with, Hughie,' said Trevor, It never entered

 my mind that you went about distributing alms in that reckless

 way. I can understand your kissing a pretty model, but your

 giving a sovereign to an ugly one - by Jove, no! Besides, the fact

 is that I really was not at home to-day to any one; and when you

 came in I didn't know whether Hausberg would like his name

 mentioned.

 

1.      What does Trevor find amusing in the given context?

2.      Why does Hughie feel sulkily about Trevor's reaction?

3.      What does Trevor say about Hughie's habit of distributing alms?

4.      Why didn't Trevor tell Hughie about Baron Hausberg's true identity?

5.      How does Trevor react to Hughie's realization about Baron Hausberg?

Answers:

  1. What does Trevor find amusing in the given context?

    • Answer: Trevor finds Hughie's act of giving a sovereign to the beggar amusing. He bursts into laughter, suggesting that he finds humour in the situation.

  2. Why does Hughie feel sulky about Trevor's reaction?

    • Answer: Hughie feels sulky because he realizes that he made a fool of himself by giving money to a beggar who turns out to be Baron Hausberg, a wealthy man. He thinks Trevor should have warned him about the beggar's true identity.

  3. What does Trevor say about Hughie's habit of distributing alms?

    • Answer: Trevor expresses surprise at Hughie's habit of distributing alms recklessly. He mentions that while he can understand Hughie's actions towards a pretty model, giving money to an ugly beggar was unexpected.

  4. Why didn't Trevor tell Hughie about Baron Hausberg's true identity?

    • Answer: Trevor explains that he was not at home to anyone on that particular day, and when Hughie came in, he was unsure if Baron Hausberg would appreciate his name being mentioned. This indicates Trevor's consideration of the Baron's privacy.

  5. How does Trevor react to Hughie's realization about Baron Hausberg?

    • Answer: Trevor reacts by finding humour in the situation. He laughs and playfully suggests that Hughie will never see the sovereign again. Trevor's reaction emphasizes the unexpected and comical twist in the story.

Here are the questions with the correct words placed in the blanks

  1. Oscar Wilde was a renowned Irish poet and playwright.

  2. In "The Model Millionaire," Hughie Erskine helps a beggar who turns out to be a millionaire.

  3. Appearances can be deceptive, as the beggar is revealed to be wealthy.

  4. Hughie Erskine was a charming but ineffectual young man.

  5. Hughie's father bequeathed him a cavalry sword and a History of the Peninsular War.

  6. Hughie tried his luck on the Stock Exchange but didn't fit in with the bulls there.

  7. He also attempted a career as a tea merchant and selling dry sherry.

  8. Alan Trevor, a painter and artist, took a liking to Hughie because of his personal charm.

  9. Trevor was working on a life-size portrait of a beggar in his studio.

  10. The beggar in Trevor's studio wore a coarse brown cloak and had a piteous expression.

  11. Hughie couldn't find much money in his pockets, just a sovereign and some coppers.

  12. Hughie thought the beggar's rags were falling to bits.

  13. Hughie decided to slip a sovereign into the beggar's hand.

  14. Trevor told the beggar, who turned out to be Baron Hausberg, all about Hughie's private affairs.

  15. Baron Hausberg gifted Hughie and Laura Merton with a wedding present.

  16. The story of "The Model Millionaire" emphasizes the normalization of charity without expecting anything in return.

  17. Hughie was embarrassed and left Trevor's studio blushing.

  18. Alan Trevor was known for being a masterful artist.

  19. Hughie believed that the poor should be practical and prosaic.

  20. In the end, the story highlights the idea that goodness and goodness matter more than wealth.

Here are the answers to the questions

  1. Who is the author of "The Model Millionaire"?

  2. What is Hughie Erskine's role in the story?

  3. What is the central theme or message of the story?

  4. Describe the initial impression Hughie has of the beggar.

  5. How does the story challenge the notion of appearances?

  6. Why does Hughie's father refuse to allow an engagement with Laura Merton?

  7. Who is Alan Trevor, and what is his profession?

  8. How does Trevor view the people an artist should know?

  9. What kind of portrait is Trevor working on in his studio?

  10. How does Trevor describe the beggar's appearance?

  11. What motivates Hughie to give money to the beggar?

  12. Who is revealed to be the beggar in Trevor's studio?

  13. What is the significant gift given to Hughie and Laura as a wedding present?

  14. How does the story illustrate the idea of charity without expecting anything in return?

  15. Why does Hughie feel embarrassed and decide to leave Trevor's studio?

  16. What is the nature of Alan Trevor's artistic talent?

  17. What career endeavours did Hughie pursue before becoming "nothing"?

  18. What does the story imply about the relationship between wealth and charm?

  19. How does the story portray the Colonel's character?

  20. What is the ultimate message conveyed by the story "The Model Millionaire"?

Here are the answers to the questions

  • 1. Who is the author of "The Model Millionaire"?

    • The author of "The Model Millionaire" is Oscar Wilde.

  • 2. What is Hughie Erskine's role in the story?

    • Hughie Erskine is the central character in the story. He helps a beggar who turns out to be a wealthy man, and his actions drive the narrative.

  • 3. What is the central theme or message of the story?

    • The central theme of the story is the idea that appearances can be deceptive, and it emphasizes the virtue of charity without expecting anything in return.

  • 4. Describe the initial impression Hughie has of the beggar.

    • Hughie initially believes the beggar to be a poor man in need, wearing tattered rags and looking miserable.

  • 5. How does the story challenge the notion of appearances?

    • The story challenges the notion of appearances by revealing that the beggar, who appears destitute, is, in fact, a millionaire in disguise. It highlights the difference between one's outward appearance and their true identity.

  • 6. Why does Hughie's father refuse to allow an engagement with Laura Merton?

    • Hughie's father refuses to allow the engagement because Hughie does not have a substantial income or prospects. He insists that Hughie should have £10,000 of his own before marrying.

  • 7. Who is Alan Trevor, and what is his profession?

    • Alan Trevor is a painter and an artist. He is known for his artistic talent and works in his studio.

  • 8. How does Trevor view the people an artist should know?

    • Trevor believes that artists should associate with people who are beautiful and provide artistic pleasure to look at and intellectual repose to talk to. He values individuals who are aesthetically pleasing.

  • 9. What kind of portrait is Trevor working on in his studio?

    • Trevor is working on a life-size portrait of a beggar in his studio.

  • 10. How does Trevor describe the beggar's appearance?

    • Trevor describes the beggar as having a wrinkled face like parchment, wearing a coarse brown cloak in tatters, and standing with a piteous expression, holding out a battered hat for alms.

  • 11. What motivates Hughie to give money to the beggar?

    • Hughie's motivation to give money to the beggar arises from a sense of pity and compassion for the beggar's pitiable appearance.

  • 12. Who is revealed to be the beggar in Trevor's studio?

    • The beggar in Trevor's studio is revealed to be Baron Hausberg, a wealthy man who commissioned the artist to paint his portrait in beggar's clothing.

  • 13. What is the significant gift given to Hughie and Laura as a wedding present?

    • Baron Hausberg gifts Hughie and Laura Merton a wedding present of £10,000 in the form of a cheque.

  • 14. How does the story illustrate the idea of charity without expecting anything in return?

    • The story illustrates the idea of charity without expecting anything in return by showing how Hughie's act of kindness in giving money to the beggar, despite the beggar's true identity as a millionaire, leads to a generous and unexpected gift from Baron Hausberg.

  • 15. Why does Hughie feel embarrassed and decide to leave Trevor's studio?

    • Hughie feels embarrassed upon learning the true identity of the beggar and leaves Trevor's studio because he realizes that he has given a sovereign to a wealthy man, which makes him feel foolish.

  • 16. What is the nature of Alan Trevor's artistic talent?

    • Alan Trevor is a talented painter who is known for his ability to create compelling and realistic portraits. He excels in capturing the essence of his subjects in his artwork.

  • 17. What career endeavors did Hughie pursue before becoming "nothing"?

    • Before becoming "nothing," Hughie attempted careers on the Stock Exchange, as a tea merchant, and selling dry sherry, but he was not successful in any of these endeavors.

  • 18. What does the story imply about the relationship between wealth and charm?

    • The story implies that charm and goodness are more important than wealth. Hughie is charming but lacks wealth, while Baron Hausberg is wealthy but chooses to disguise himself as a beggar. Ultimately, the story suggests that personal qualities matter more than riches.

  • 19. How does the story portray the Colonel's character?

    • The story portrays the Colonel as a strict and wealthy man who insists that Hughie must have £10,000 of his own before marrying Laura Merton.

  • 20. What is the ultimate message conveyed by the story "The Model Millionaire"?

    • The ultimate message of the story is that goodness, kindness, and charity are valuable virtues, regardless of one's financial status. It highlights the unpredictability of life and the idea that appearances can be deceptive.

Here are the answers to the multiple-choice questions

  1. b) The value of generosity and charity

  2. d) A good-looking young man without a profession

  3. c) Baron Hausberg

  4. b) A sovereign

  5. c) The act of charity without expecting anything in return is noble

  6. b) It hints at the contrast between appearances and reality.

  7. b) Tea-merchant

  8. b) To test Trevor's artistic skills

  9. c) He feels embarrassed and sulkily leaves.

  10. c) Comedy

  11. c) Painting

  12. d) He laughs and finds it amusing.

  13. c) It reflects the contrast between appearances and reality.

  14. c) Baron Hausberg

  15. c) The act of giving without expecting rewards is noble.

  16. c) Generosity is always rewarded.

  17. c) He rewards Hughie with a wedding present.

  18. b) Generous and compassionate

  19. b) A beggar-man

  20. b) Artists should paint subjects realistically, whether they are wealthy or not.

bottom of page