What is the significance of the repetition of the word absurd in The Importance of Being Earnest?
The repetition of the word absurd in The Importance of Being Earnest serves to emphasize the play's comedic elements and to highlight the ridiculousness of the characters' behavior. It also serves to emphasize the play's themes of social convention and the absurdity of the Victorian era's rigid social norms.
The repetition of the word "absurd" in Oscar Wilde's play, The Importance of Being Earnest, serves to highlight the central theme of the play, which is the triviality and artificiality of the Victorian social conventions and the hypocritical behavior that came with them. Here is a step-by-step explanation of the significance of the repetition of the word "absurd":
1. Highlighting the superficiality: By repeatedly using the word "absurd," Wilde is drawing attention to the absurdity of the characters' actions and the society they belong to. The characters' obsession with trivial matters, their ridiculous behavior, and their adherence to rigid social norms are all exposed as absurd.
2. Satire on Victorian society: Wilde uses the repetition of "absurd" to mock the strict rules and conventions of Victorian society, portraying them as ludicrous and nonsensical. The characters, especially the aristocrats, are shown as empty-headed and shallow, engaging in trivial conversations and pursuits.
3. Exposing hypocrisy: Through the repetition of "absurd," Wilde also exposes the hypocrisy of the upper class, who seemed to adhere to a set of moral standards while secretly indulging in immoral behavior. The word points out the absurdity of their double lives and their dishonesty in upholding societal expectations.
4. Emphasizing the artificiality: The use of "absurd" highlights the artificiality of the characters and their way of life. The excessive focus on appearances, the insincere remarks, and the pretentious behaviors are all exposed as absurd, showcasing the hollowness of the upper-class society.
5. Reinforcing the comedic tone: The repetition of "absurd" adds to the play's overall comedic effect. It creates a sense of humor and allows the audience to find amusement in the characters' absurd actions and situations. The use of the word contributes to the farcical nature of the play.
Overall, the repetition of the word "absurd" in The Importance of Being Earnest serves multiple purposes. It satirizes Victorian society, exposes its hypocrisy, mocks the characters' behaviors, and reinforces the comedic tone of the play.