The Importance of Being Earnest
Act 1, First Half
Why is Lady Bracknell so concerned when Algernon declines her invitation to dinner? Is this surprising to you?
Lady Bracknell is concerned when Algernon declines her invitation to dinner because she is very particular about social etiquette and feels that it is rude for someone to refuse an invitation without a valid excuse. Additionally, Lady Bracknell is a highly opinionated and judgmental character who values social status and appearances, so she may feel slighted by Algernon's refusal.
This reaction may not be surprising given Lady Bracknell's personality and the emphasis placed on social conventions in the play. It highlights the importance of maintaining a certain level of decorum and adhering to societal expectations, particularly within upper-class circles.