In "Elmer Gantry" by Sinclair Lewis, the character demonstrates a mixed academic performance, struggling particularly with Greek to the point of nearly failing. This highlights a common theme of the pursuit of knowledge and the challenges that come with it, showing that formal education can be a complicated journey.

Despite his difficulties in some subjects, he managed to achieve success in Practical Theology, where his thesis on 'Sixteen Ways of Paying a Church Debt' earned him a small prize. This signifies that success can come from understanding practical aspects of life and faith, even if one does not excel in all areas of study.