The Model Millionaire
ICSE · Class 10 · English Literature-Treasure Chest ( Poems and Short Stories)
Complete topic list for The Model Millionaire in ICSE Class 10 English Literature-Treasure Chest ( Poems and Short Stories). Key concepts, sub-topics, and what to focus on for board exams.
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About the Author – Oscar Wilde
- Oscar Wilde (1854–1900) was an Irish author, poet, and playwright born in Dublin, Ireland.
- He studied at Trinity College Dublin and Magdalen College, Oxford, where he became renowned for his sharp intellect and flamboyant personality.
- He is famous for plays such as 'The Importance of Being Earnest', 'An Ideal Husband', and 'Lady Windermere's Fan'.
Plot Summary – The Complete Story
- The story begins with a detailed description of Hughie Erskine — young, handsome, charming, but completely unable to earn money. He has tried the Stock Exchange, tea-selling, and selling sherry — all
- He lives on a meagre allowance of £200 a year left by an aunt.
- Hughie is deeply in love with Laura Merton, a beautiful girl. Her father, Colonel Merton, likes Hughie personally but will not allow the engagement to proceed until Hughie can show he has £10,000 of h
Character Sketches
- HUGHIE ERSKINE: The protagonist. Wonderfully handsome, charming, and universally loved. He is described as having every gift except money. He has failed at every profession he has attempted. However,
- BARON HAUSBERG: The 'beggar' model. One of the wealthiest men in Europe. A nobleman of high rank (indicated by his coat of arms). He is perceptive and kind — he sees in Hughie's gesture not foolishnes
- ALAN TREVOR: Hughie's best friend and a successful painter. He appreciates the beggar-model for his artistic value — the man's wretchedness makes for a striking visual. He sees people as subjects for
Themes of the Story
- THEME 1 — GENEROSITY AND ITS REWARDS: The central moral of the story. Hughie's act of giving his last sovereign is an act of pure, uncalculated generosity. He gains nothing by it — in fact, he loses h
- THEME 2 — APPEARANCE VERSUS REALITY: The most prominent literary theme. The 'beggar' is actually one of the richest men in Europe. The 'poor' young man turns out to be the one with genuine worth — a r
- THEME 3 — SOCIAL COMMENTARY ON WEALTH AND MARRIAGE: Colonel Merton's requirement that Hughie possess £10,000 before he can marry Laura reflects the Victorian society's tendency to measure a man's wort
Key Concepts
Central concept: The Model Millionaire by Oscar Wilde
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