Jack, who resides in the country, introduces a devious and unruly brother named Ernest who resides in the city so that he can be reckless in one place while also being arguably mature in another. Their “Bunburying” depicts the theme that idle hands indulge in mischief. The play pursues wealthy and bored protagonists, Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff, as they court two women, Gwendolen Fairfax and Cecily Cardew, pretending to be men named Ernest.
Despite being published in 1895, The Importance of Being Earnest was an easy read because the play is easily humourous. The words and phrases are not used modernly and therefore, what is written is difficult to understand in the absence of translations or SparkNotes. In many of the English classes I have enrolled in, there are numerous books or plays - especially Shakespeare - that I have read which might be interesting but the diction is archaic. This year in AP Literature, The Importance of Being Earnest was assigned and was not amongst those writing pieces. Both of the wealthy characters struggle to follow their desires and wishes without being seen as disobeying the rules and restrictions of the upper class.Over the years, I have been assigned to read a multitude of books and plays for English classes - some of those writing pieces I have never committed to and read thoroughly.
Although the upper class is assumed to have freedom of choice due to their financial opportunities, the given play clearly illustrates that it is not the case. Throughout the story, there is a feeling of restraint because the surrounding people expect specific manners. In addition, both characters live a highly aristocratic lifestyle, which forces them to possess a certain type of behavior. The lack of love is not relevant because they consider family background, social status, and wealth as the most crucial factors and criteria for marriage. The story brings up the topic of marriage and how the upper class can live dual lives, where the institution of marriage is an obligation and formal union.
Although wealthy individuals can be arrogant and demand respect, they can face severe challenges and difficulties due to their social status. The portrayal of the upper class in the play is an essential element of the story.
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