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Cover of Mr. Durant of Salt Lake City, "That Mormon"

Mr. Durant of Salt Lake City, "That Mormon"

Written by Ben. E. (Benjamin Erastus) Rich

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Latter Day SaintsSalt Lake City (Utah)

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About this book

"Mr. Durant of Salt Lake City, 'That Mormon'" by Ben E. Rich is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work aims to present the faith and beliefs of the Latter-day Saints, highlighting the experiences of Charles Durant, a Western missionary from Salt Lake City, as he engages with various characters in a Southern town. The book provides an exploration of religious discussions and the challenges faced by Durant in advocating for his beliefs amidst skepticism and prejudice. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to a bustling Southern town, Westminster, where the scenery and customs reflect the societal changes post-Civil War. The opening chapters set the stage for the arrival of Charles Durant, who becomes a part of the Marshall family’s social circle. His ability to relate and engage in deep discussions about faith and morality captures the interest of the townsfolk, leading to a series of dialogues among guests at the Harmony Place hotel. As Durant navigates these interactions, we witness a clash of ideas surrounding Christianity and its interpretations, ultimately revealing his mission to present the principles of his faith to an interested audience, despite facing hostility from some local figures, particularly a disapproving minister.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Mr. Durant of Salt Lake City, "That Mormon", written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • instructive
  • earnest
  • challenging

Ben E. Rich's "Mr. Durant of Salt Lake City, 'That Mormon'" is a late 19th-century historical account that chronicles the experiences of Charles Durant, a Latter-day Saint missionary, in a post-Civil War Southern town called Westminster. The narrative unfolds as Durant engages in profound religious dialogues within the Marshall family's social circle and at the Harmony Place hotel, aiming to elucidate the principles of his faith. He navigates a landscape of skepticism and outright prejudice, particularly from a disapproving local minister, as he strives to present his beliefs to an interested, yet often resistant, audience. The book serves as a persuasive exploration of religious discussion, challenging established interpretations of Christianity while advocating for the Latter-day Saint perspective.

“"It is not my purpose to condemn, but to clarify; to present a truth often misunderstood, not to diminish the faith of others."”

Key themes

Religious Tolerance vs. Prejudice
This theme is central to the narrative, exploring the tension between the established religious norms of the Southern town and the 'new' faith represented by Charles Durant. The book vividly portrays the skepticism, suspicion, and outright hostility Durant faces due to his identity as 'That Mormon', juxtaposed with moments of open-mindedness and curiosity. It highlights the challenges of advocating for a minority faith in a culturally homogenous environment.
Faith, Conversion, and Spiritual Truth
At its core, the book is an exploration of faith – its origins, its articulation, and its power to transform. Durant's mission is fundamentally about presenting what he believes to be spiritual truth and inviting others to consider it. The narrative delves into the nature of belief, the process of questioning and seeking, and the personal conviction required to embrace or reject a particular religious path.
Identity and Belonging in a Changing Society
The book subtly explores how identity is shaped by religious affiliation and societal perception, especially for an outsider like Durant. His identity as a 'Mormon' precedes him and often defines him in the eyes of the Westminster community. The narrative also touches on the broader societal changes in the post-Civil War South, where communities were grappling with redefining themselves and their values, making the arrival of an 'other' even more impactful.

Worth discussing

How does Rich use the character of Charles Durant to challenge prevailing stereotypes about Latter-day Saints in the late 19th century?

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