By smartcubs Hughie Erskine is the protagonist of Oscar Wilde’s short story “The Model Millionaire.” He is a young man of charming personality but limited financial means. Wilde uses Hughie’s character to explore themes of generosity, love, and the nature of true wealth.
Introduction
Hughie Erskine is introduced as a handsome and charming young man who is well-liked in society. Despite his good looks and amiable personality, he faces financial difficulties, which complicates his romantic aspirations. His character serves as a vehicle for Wilde’s commentary on society’s perception of wealth and generosity.
Physical Appearance
Hughie is described as exceptionally handsome. His good looks are emphasized by Wilde, who notes that he is admired by many:
- Handsome: Hughie’s appearance is striking, making him popular in social circles.
- Charming: His charm complements his looks, making him a favored guest at social gatherings.
Personality Traits
Generous and Kind-hearted
- Generosity: Hughie is inherently generous, often giving away money even when he can scarcely afford it. His generosity is highlighted when he gives a sovereign to a beggar model, despite his own financial constraints.
- Kindness: His actions reflect a deep sense of empathy and kindness. He is moved by the plight of others and feels compelled to help, even if it means personal sacrifice.
Romantic and Loyal
- Love for Laura Merton: Hughie’s romantic nature is evident in his love for Laura Merton. His devotion to her drives much of his actions, including his desire to improve his financial situation to win her father’s approval.
- Loyalty: His loyalty extends beyond romantic relationships. He is a faithful friend and companion, always ready to support those he cares about.
Naïve and Innocent
- Naivety: Hughie’s innocence and lack of worldliness are apparent in his interactions. He is unaware that the beggar model is actually a wealthy baron, which leads to a significant turn of events in the story.
- Trusting: His trusting nature makes him vulnerable, but it also highlights his purity of heart. He believes in the goodness of others and acts without expecting anything in return.
Role in the Story
Catalyst for the Plot
- Generous Act: Hughie’s impulsive act of giving a sovereign to the beggar model sets the entire plot in motion. This act of kindness, though seemingly insignificant, leads to a life-changing reward.
- Transformation: His story transforms from one of struggle to one of unexpected fortune, emphasizing Wilde’s message about the rewards of genuine kindness.
Contrast to Other Characters
- Contrasted with Alan Trevor: Hughie’s friend, Alan Trevor, is a successful artist who understands the value of money and social status. In contrast, Hughie is more focused on human connection and generosity.
- Reflection of True Wealth: The beggar model, who turns out to be a wealthy baron, contrasts with Hughie’s financial poverty but moral richness. This juxtaposition highlights Wilde’s critique of societal values.
Development and Growth
- Self-awareness: Throughout the story, Hughie becomes more self-aware. His initial embarrassment over his financial state and his impulsive generosity lead to a deeper understanding of true wealth and kindness.
- Fortunate Outcome: Despite his naïveté, Hughie’s genuine nature is rewarded when the baron gifts him a substantial sum, enabling him to marry Laura.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Generosity | Gives money despite financial strain |
| Kind-hearted | Empathetic and caring |
| Romantic | Deeply in love with Laura Merton |
| Loyal | Faithful to friends and loved ones |
| Naïve | Innocent and trusting |
| Handsome | Striking physical appearance |
| Charming | Well-liked and sociable |
Relationship with Other Characters
Laura Merton
- Romantic Interest: Hughie’s love for Laura is a driving force in his life. He is determined to marry her, despite the financial obstacles.
- Devotion: His devotion to Laura showcases his romantic and loyal nature, as he is willing to do anything to secure their future together.
Alan Trevor
- Friendship: Alan Trevor is Hughie’s close friend, a successful artist who values wealth and status differently than Hughie.
- Support: Despite their differences, Alan supports Hughie and provides the setting for the story’s pivotal moment by inviting him to his studio.
The Baron (Beggar Model)
- Unexpected Benefactor: The baron, disguised as a beggar model, becomes an unexpected benefactor to Hughie. His gesture of giving Hughie a fortune reveals the baron’s appreciation for genuine kindness.
- Contrast: The baron’s wealth contrasts with Hughie’s poverty, highlighting the story’s theme of true generosity and the nature of wealth.
Hughie Erskine, through his journey in “The Model Millionaire,” exemplifies the virtues of kindness, generosity, and love. His character’s development from a struggling suitor to a fortunate fiancé underscores Wilde’s message that true wealth lies in the richness of the heart.