The Importance Of Being Earnest, By Oscar Wilde

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The Victorian Era is named after Queen Victoria of England in which it was characterized by strict cultural norms, political stability and increased wealth. The rules motivated people to behave in a social way depending on one’s social standing. Women were seen comparatively weaker than men and the nurturing ability of the women meant that they had to fulfill household chores. Men and women searched form an ideal relationship based on the expectations of a demanding society. Men were seen as more rational and stronger and therefore suited to the politics and business world. In Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest, the author presents the perceptions, narratives, and situations during the period. From the first scene, Wilde aims to present …show more content…
The Lady points to the potential embarrassment because the uncle would be forced to eat someone else. In addition, the potential disarray at the table means that Lady Bracknell has to dictate whether Lord has to leave or stay. Therefore, the Lady Bracknell has an upper hand, which goes against the traditions of Victorian …show more content…
The traditional Victorian society did not appreciate women furthering their knowledge but Cecily is persuaded to improve her knowledge. Wilde says, “child, you know how anxious your guardian is that you should improve yourself in every way” (24). Jack should have upheld the expectation to refuse or control knowledge acquisition by Cecily. However, Cecily being a girl is persuaded to further her expectations through having a good education and being knowledgeable. In Victorian society, having money and being attractive was the expected norm to make polite tea conversation. However, the angle taken shows the importance of furthering professional and personal development. Victorian society had specific rules, ethics, and guidelines in the way people behaved and acted in the society especially women. It is nearly unheard or appreciated when an unmarried woman gives birth before marriage. However, Jack tends to disagree. Jack says, “Unmarried! I do not deny that is a serious blow …” (Wilde 64). Women were required to remain chaste until married but the narrative that Jack presents shows an aspect of feminism. Jack is happy because he would interact with a living relative meaning the social norms do not influence his

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