The Importance of Being Earnest
Act II, Second Half
Think about how food is used in the exchange between Cecily and Gwendolen. How does Cecily use food to assert her power?
In the exchange between Cecily and Gwendolen in Act II of The Importance of Being Earnest, food is used as a tool for asserting power and control. Cecily takes charge by ordering tea and cakes, showing her dominance over Gwendolen in the situation. By acting as the hostess and offering food to Gwendolen, Cecily asserts her authority and superiority in the conversation.
Additionally, food serves as a means for Cecily to maintain her composure and stay in control of the situation. While Gwendolen is initially confrontational and assertive, Cecily's calm and composed demeanor, aided by her offering of food, allows her to effectively navigate the conversation and maintain power over Gwendolen.
Overall, Cecily's use of food in the exchange with Gwendolen symbolizes her ability to assert her power and maintain control in social interactions. By taking charge of the situation and using food as a means to establish her dominance, Cecily effectively asserts her authority and superiority over Gwendolen.