The Importance of Being Earnest: Character & Key Quotes: Lane

Character Analysis: Lane

Lane is Algernon’s manservant; his role in the play is minor compared to the main characters. However, his presence is significant in the plot.
Lane’s character is marked by discretion and loyalty. He provides comic relief while highlighting the hypocritical behaviour of his masters.
His humorous comments, which he delivers with a straight face, underscore the play’s satirical tone. He shows a dispassionate acceptance of the immoral behaviour of his employers, reflecting the social norms during this period.
Lane serves as a stark contrast to the overblown dramatic behaviour of the upper class characters, providing a morally ambiguous viewpoint on their actions.

Key Quotes and Their Significance

Lane: “I attribute it to the superior quality of the wine, sir… I have often observed that in married households the champagne is rarely of a first-rate brand.” This statement adds a comic element, while also highlighting the hypocrisy embedded within Victorian society - suggesting that people tend to put on a facade, particularly in their marriages.
Lane: “I didn’t think it polite to listen, sir.” This quote is a succinct comment on his position as a servant - he shouldn’t eavesdrop, but the fact that he does highlights the fact that the servants often have more insight into their employers’ lives than anyone else.

Themes Associated with Lane

Class Differences: Lane’s character highlights the significant difference between the servants and the upper class, both in terms of duties and perception.
Decorum and Morality: Despite seeing morality being flouted in front of him, Lane keeps a neutral position, underlining the societal norm that the lower class should not comment on the behavior of their bettors.
Hypocrisy and Deception: Through his astute observations, Lane indirectly exposes the pretentiousness and dual lifestyle of the upper class, thereby contributing to the theme of deception.