The Importance of Being Earnest: Language and Imagery

Language and Imagery in ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’

Wilde’s Wit

Wilde’s dialogue often includes witty epigrams, such as “All women become like their mothers. That is their tragedy. No man does. That’s his.”
His characters often speak in a flippant and ironic style. For instance, Algernon’s character regularly delivers flippant remarks, usually targeted at Victorian societal norms.
Use of puns plays a significant role in the play. The entire premise of the title is a pun on ‘Ernest’ and ‘earnest’, creating a comic effect and establishing the satirical tone.

Imagery

Food imagery is prevalent throughout the play. It is often used to highlight character’s desires and double standards. For instance, Algernon’s indulgence in cucumber sandwiches and muffins can be seen as his desire for a leisurely lifestyle despite his pretentious societal manners.
Symbolism is also used to reinforce thematic content. The interchangeability of the names Jack and Ernest signifies the duplicity of Victorian society.

Language Use

The use of hyperbole adds to the absurdity of the characters and their situations. This is reflected in Lady Bracknell’s incredibly exaggerated statements about societal norms.
Wilde uses inverted sentences to make the mundane seems profound and vice versa, thereby undercutting the pretensions of the characters.
He employs formal language to reflect social hierarchy and figures of authority. For instance, Lady Bracknell speaks with a distinct authoritarian tone, reflecting her dominion in the societal context.

Satire and Social Commentary

Wilde uses language to satirize the Victorian ideals of respectability. Characters often display a hypocritical concern for appearances and respectability while engaging in deceit.
The manner in which characters’ speeches are constructed project them as eccentric and absurd. This serves to highlight flaws and inconsistencies in Victorian Society, making it an effective social critique.
The use of paradoxical statements further underlines the inconsistency of the societal norms that the characters uphold. Gwendolen’s statement “in matters of grave importance, style, not sincerity is the vital thing” is a perfect example of this.