The Importance of Being Earnest: Key Quotes Act 1

Key Quotes

Algernon Moncrieff

“Really, if the lower orders don’t set us a good example, what on earth is the use of them?”
- This quote reflects Algernon’s satirical view on the societal hierarchy of the Victorian era and Wilde’s criticism on the upper class’s arrogance.
“I hate people who are not serious about meals. It is so shallow of them.”
- Here, Algernon’s seriousness about trivialities, like meals, and disregard for more serious matters is a humoristic critique of the Victorian upper class’s misplaced priorities.

Jack Worthing (Ernest)

“When one is in town one amuses oneself. When one is in the country one amuses other people.”
- This quote illustrates Jack’s double life and the different personas he adopts depending on his location.
“My name is Ernest in town and Jack in the country.”
- Jack’s revelation about his double life further substantiates the theme of deception and duplicity.

Gwendolen Fairfax

“In matters of grave importance, style, not sincerity, is the vital thing.”
- Gwendolen’s quote reflects the superficial values of the Victorian upper class; ostentation and style is given more importance than sincerity and true feelings.

Lady Bracknell

“I do not approve of anything that tampers with natural ignorance.”
- Lady Bracknell’s views, reflecting the general upper-class Victorian opinion, underline the established power structures; maintaining the ‘natural ignorance’ of other classes secures her societal position.
“A man should always have something sensational to read in the train.”
- The line represents Wilde’s criticism of the trivial concerns of the privileged class.

Theme Expansions

The quotes contribute significantly to the themes of deception and duplicity, class and social status, artificiality and aestheticism, and social obligations.
Wilde’s use of wit, satire, and epigrams in these lines not only adds to the comedic effect but also offers societal criticism on the absurdities and hypocrisies of the Victorian upper class.