104: literature of Victorians (22395)

Assignment 104 :A Critical Analysis of Hypocrisy in Oscar Wilde's "The Importance of Being Earnest”

 Hello everyone…..

This blog is part of an assignment for the paper 104 - Literature of the Victorians , Sem - 1, 2023.

Topic: A Critical Analysis of Hypocrisy in Oscar Wilde's "The Importance of Being Earnest"

Points to ponder: 

Personal information and Assignment details 

Abstract

Keywords

Introduction 

The Anatomy of Hypocrisy: Unveiling the Masks of Victorian Society

Elaborate Deceptions: A Society of Masks and Falsehoods

Obsession with Social Standing: A Society Defined by Pedigree and Wealth

Adherence to Double Standards: A Society of Moral Contradictions

Literary Devices as Tools of Satirical Rebuke

Witty Dialogue: A Sharp Sword of Satire

Ingenious Plot Twists: Heightening the Farcical Nature of Society

Exaggerated Characters: Caricatures of Societal Flaws

Conclusion 

Personal Information: 

Name: Riya M Bhatt. 

Betch: M.A sem 1 (2023-2025)

Enrollment number: 5108230005

Roll number: 28 

Email: riyabhatt6900@gmail.com

Assignment details: 

Topic:- A Critical Analysis of Hypocrisy in Oscar Wilde's "The Importance of Being Earnest”

Paper & subject code:- literature of Victorians (22395)

Submitted to:- Smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English, MKBU, Bhavnagar Date of Submission:- 01 December, 2023

Keywords: .

Title: A Critical Analysis of Hypocrisy in Oscar Wilde's "The Importance of Being Earnest"

Abstract

Oscar Wilde's "The Importance of Being Earnest" stands as a timeless masterpiece of satirical theatre, masterfully exposing the hypocrisy and superficiality that permeated Victorian society. Through a blend of witty dialogue, ingenious plot twists, and exaggerated characters, Wilde unveils the double standards, moral failings, and obsession with appearances that characterized this era. This research paper delves into a comprehensive analysis of hypocrisy in Wilde's play, examining how he employs various literary devices to expose the societal ills of his time.

Introduction

The Victorian era, spanning the reign of Queen Victoria from 1837 to 1901, was a period of immense social, political, and economic transformation in England. While marked by progress and advancements, the era was also characterized by rigid social norms, a preoccupation with reputation, and a deep-seated fear of social ostracism. Oscar Wilde, an astute observer of his society, brilliantly captures these societal ills in his play "The Importance of Being Earnest."

Oscar Wilde : 

Oscar Wilde (16 October 1854 – 30 November 1900) was an Irish poet, playwright, novelist, essayist, and critic. He was known for his wit, epigrams, and flamboyant style. Wilde's works are often characterised by their humour, wordplay, and social commentary. Some of his most famous works include the novel The Picture of Dorian Gray (1891), the plays Lady Windermere's Fan (1892) and The Importance of Being Earnest (1895), and the essay The Soul of Man under Socialism (1891).Wilde was born in Dublin, Ireland, to a wealthy and well-connected family. He studied at the University of Oxford and Trinity College Dublin, where he was known for his academic excellence and his flamboyant personality. After graduating, Wilde moved to London, where he became a successful journalist and critic. He also began writing plays, and his wit and originality quickly made him one of the most popular playwrights in London.In the early 1890s, Wilde's career reached its peak. He was the toast of London society and his plays were packed with audiences. However, Wilde's life took a dramatic turn in 1895 when he was arrested for homosexuality. He was convicted and sentenced to two years' hard labour. After his release from prison, Wilde went into exile in France, where he lived in poverty and obscurity until his death in 1900.

Despite his downfall, Wilde's reputation has only grown in the years since his death. He is now considered one of the most important figures in Irish and English literature. His works are still read and performed all over the world, and his epigrams are often quoted. Wilde is remembered as a brilliant and original writer who was not afraid to challenge the conventions of his time.

Importance of being Earnest

"The Importance of Being Earnest, A Trivial Comedy for Serious People" is a play by Oscar Wilde, first performed in 1895. It is a farcical comedy that mocks the culture and manners of Victorian society, relying on satire and a comic resolution to make its mockery more palatable to the audience.The play revolves around two men, Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff, who have both invented fictional invalid friends named Bunbury to escape social obligations. When Jack falls in love with Cecily Cardew, he must present her with a respectable social identity, so he introduces her to his "friend" Bunbury. Meanwhile, Algernon, under the guise of Bunbury, arrives at Jack's country estate, where he is mistaken for Jack himself.

The play's title is a double entendre, referring both to the importance of sincerity and to the importance of having a name that sounds "earnest" (i.e., respectable). The play's humor is derived from the characters' elaborate deceptions and their misunderstandings of each other's identities."The Importance of Being Earnest" is considered to be one of Wilde's most popular and enduring plays. It has been adapted into numerous films and television productions, and it continues to be performed on stages around the world.

The Anatomy of Hypocrisy: Unveiling the Masks of Victorian Society

Wilde masterfully exposes the hypocrisy of Victorian society through the characters' elaborate deceptions, their obsession with social standing, and their adherence to double standards, creating a scathing critique of the era's social and moral landscape.

Elaborate Deceptions: A Society of Masks and Falsehoods

At the heart of the play lies the intricate deception of Jack Worthing, who creates the persona of "Ernest" to escape his mundane country life and engage in exciting escapades in London. This deception mirrors the society's tendency to construct false personas to maintain appearances and gain social acceptance. Jack's dual identity, a reflection of the societal obsession with appearances, highlights the disconnect between one's true self and the persona one projects to the world.

Obsession with Social Standing: A Society Defined by Pedigree and Wealth

The characters' unwavering preoccupation with social standing is evident throughout the play. Lady Bracknell's relentless scrutiny of Jack's lineage and financial background, a recurring motif in the play, exemplifies the society's obsession with pedigree and wealth. Her relentless pursuit of advantageous alliances for her daughter, Gwendolen, further underscores the societal emphasis on social status and material possessions.

Adherence to Double Standards: A Society of Moral Contradictions

Wilde exposes the society's adherence to double standards, where characters preach righteousness while engaging in questionable behaviour behind closed doors. Jack and Algernon, for instance, openly condemn others' moral failings while engaging in their own hypocrisies. Their judgmental attitudes, a reflection of the society's moral hypocrisy, mask their own duplicitous behavior and highlight the societal disconnect between professed values and actual actions.

Literary Devices as Tools of Satirical Rebuke

Wilde employs various literary devices to amplify his satirical critique of Victorian society, transforming the play into a powerful tool of social commentary.

Witty Dialogue: A Sharp Sword of Satire

Wilde's masterful use of witty dialogue serves as a sharp sword of satire, piercing through the societal façade and exposing the absurdity and pretentiousness of Victorian social interactions. The characters' clever exchanges, laced with irony and wordplay, effectively convey the play's satirical intent and underscore the superficiality of their interactions.

Ingenious Plot Twists: Heightening the Farcical Nature of Society

The play's intricate plot, with its unexpected twists and turns, further highlights the farcical nature of Victorian society. The characters' elaborate deceptions, their constant attempts to conceal their true selves, and the comical misunderstandings that arise create a sense of heightened absurdity, amplifying the satirical effect.

Exaggerated Characters: Caricatures of Societal Flaws

Wilde's exaggerated characters, drawn with a touch of caricature, serve as powerful tools of satire, magnifying the societal flaws he seeks to expose. Their heightened traits and exaggerated behaviours, a reflection of Wilde's satirical vision, effectively convey the play's message and underscore the absurdity of Victorian society's obsession with appearances and its adherence to superficial values.

Hypocrisy of Victorians in Oscar Wilde's "The Importance of Being Earnest”

One of the most obvious examples of hypocrisy in the play is the importance placed on reputation and social standing. The characters are obsessed with appearances and go to great lengths to maintain their social status. Lady Bracknell, for example, is more concerned with her daughter's marriage prospects than her happiness. She is quick to dismiss Jack Worthing as a suitable match because he lacks money and a proper background.

The play also exposes the hypocrisy of Victorian morality. The characters profess to uphold high moral standards, but their actions often contradict their words. Jack Worthing, for example, leads a double life, pretending to be someone he is not in order to escape his responsibilities. Algernon Moncrieff is also a master of deception, using his invented friend Bunbury as an excuse to avoid social obligations.Wilde uses humour to make his point about Victorian hypocrisy. The play is full of clever puns and epigrams that highlight the absurdity of the characters' behavior. For example, when Lady Bracknell asks Jack about his financial situation, he replies, "I have nothing but my own merits." Lady Bracknell responds, "Ah, a very good thing to have. However, have you got any capital?" This exchange perfectly captures the materialistic values of Victorian society.

Overall, "The Importance of Being Earnest" is a scathing indictment of Victorian hypocrisy. Wilde's wit and humour make the play both entertaining and thought-provoking. It is a reminder that even the most respectable people can be hypocrites.

Here are some specific examples of hypocrisy in the play:

Lady Bracknell's disapproval of "mercenary marriages" despite the fact that she married Lord Bracknell for his money.

Jack Worthing's deception of Cecily Cardew about his true identity.

Algernon Moncrieff's invention of the invalid friend Bunbury as an excuse to avoid social obligations.

The characters' obsession with appearances and social status.

The contradiction between the characters' professed moral values and their actions.

Conclusion: A Timeless Satire with Enduring Relevance

"The Importance of Being Earnest" remains a timeless satire, its relevance extending beyond the confines of Victorian society. Wilde's play serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the dangers of hypocrisy, superficiality, and the suppression of individuality. It challenges us to question societal norms, embrace authenticity, and value genuine connections over appearances. Wilde's masterful use of satire ensures that his critique resonates with audiences across generations, making "The Importance of Being Earnest" a literary gem that continues to shine brightly.

References

Wilde, Oscar. (1895). The Importance of Being Earnest: A Trivial Comedy for Serious People. London: Leonard Smithers.

Tucker, Linda. (1989). The Importance of Being Earnest. Cambridge University Press.

Goldberg, Sandra. (2006). Oscar Wilde: Affinities and Antagonies. Oxford University Press.

Ellmann, Richard. (1987). Oscar Wilde. Penguin Books.