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When Jack and Algernon’s loves, Gwendolyn and Cecily, declare that they will only marry a man named Earnest, the two men find themselves deep in a lie as they unwillingly share an alter ego, Earnest Worthington. The Importance of Being Earnest comedically tackles the subject of marriage and satirizes Victorian ways with the portrayal of Jack, Algernon, Gwendolyn, and Cecily’s priorities, as well as their relationships.
About the author
Oscar Wilde (1854-1900) was an Irish playwright and novelist heavily associated with the philosophy of aestheticism. The Importance of Being Earnest was among his most popular works, and was the last comedy Wilde wrote. For a time, Wilde was one of the most successful playwrights in London. But when a libel suit against Marques of Queensbury, the father of partner unearthed evidence against Wilde, he was arrested for homosexual activity. Because he was gay, Wilde was sentenced to two years of hard labor and spent two years in jail. After Wilde was released, he was exiled. He published the last of his work in 1898.
Summary
Jack Worthington is an upstanding gentleman in Victorian society. He just has one secret—he tells everyone that he has a brother named Earnest, when, in reality, Earnest is his alter ego. This allows him a certain duality; he can go out and party as Earnest, but have a sterling reputation as Jack. However, he must merge the two when Jack discovers that his lover, Gwendolyn, will only marry a man named Earnest. Meanwhile, Algernon, a family friend, discovers Jack’s secret and (much to Jack’s dismay) becomes increasingly interested in Jack’s ward, Cecily. After inviting himself to Jack’s home and introducing himself as Earnest, Algernon quickly gains the attention of Cecily. Believing that he was the fictious Earnest Worthington, Cecily considered herself already to be engaged to him, as it is also her dream to be married to a man named Earnest. Chaos unravels as the men then find themselves with two matters of grave importance: Gwendolyn and Cecily can not both marry Earnest Worthington, and Jack and Algernon can not let them know that Earnest never existed in the first place.
When first released, The Importance of Being Earnest was dubbed as a “trivial comedy for serious people”. While Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest is certain to bring a smile to its audience, it also serves as witty satire of Victorian London and marriage. The Importance of Being Earnest has been revered on stage and on film, as well as in print. Wilde captures the audience with a comedic plot, authentic characters and a promise not to take itself too seriously.
Enjoy The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde with new and modern fonts and an eye-catching cover. Though it has outlived the society it mocks, The Importance of Being Earnest continues to be comedic gold even in the 21st century.
