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

Character Analysis: Merriman

Merriman is Algernon’s butler, acting as the lower-class contrast to the aristocracy in the play.
Despite his minor role, Merriman’s presence and actions add to the comic relief of the work and also highlight the social divide between him and his masters.
His obliviousness to the machinations of the upper class further underscores the disconnection between the classes.
Merriman is restrained and professional, maintaining his duty in spite of the absurdity unfolding around him.

Key Quotes

“They have been eating muffins. That looks like repentance.” - Merriman’s comment is ironic in its simplicity, contrasting the convoluted affairs of the higher classes.
“There is some champagne in the next room.” - Merriman’s ability to maintain his duties and decorum despite the anarchy, shown here, highlights his professionalism.

Themes and Merriman’s Role

The Gap Between Social Classes: Merriman’s very presence and obliviousness to the main conflict underline the distance between the servants and their masters in Victorian society.
The ludicrous nature of the Upper Class: Merriman serves as a contrast to the often absurd upper class characters. His simplicity and dedication to his duties throw the ridiculous antics and concerns of the aristocracy into sharp relief.

Language and Style

Merriman’s language is simple and direct, a stark contrast to the pretentious, flamboyant speech of the upper classes in the play.
He often uses short, fact-based statements. These highlight his restricted societal role and serve as a sharp comedic contrast to the intricate webs of deception spun by the upper class characters.
His speech lacks the sophistication and wit commonly found in Wilde’s upper class characters, further emphasising his lower social status.