a. Explain the significance of the full title of the play: The Importance of Being Earnest (A Trivial Comedy for Serious People). Discuss the meaning of the word earnest and the name Ernest as well as how Wilde communicates his message regarding trivial and serious matters. Use examples from the play.
Copy/paste/[fill-in]: The title of the play The Importance of Being Earnest (A Trivial Comedy for Serious People) is significant because [...]. The word earnest means [...]. This word applies to the play when [...] as well as when [...]. These details show [....]. The name Ernest means [...]. This name applies to the play when [...] as well as when [...]. These details show [...]. Therefore, Wilde is communicating a message that [...] is trivial and not a serious matter.
b. How is the consumption of food used as a symbol in the play? What does food stand for in the play? How does Oscar Wilde use symbolism in his social commentary? Use examples from the play to support your answer.
Copy/paste/[fill-in]: The consumption of food is used as a symbol in the play to [...]. For example, the food [...] is used in the play when [...]. The food stands for [...]. Oscar Wilde uses this symbolism to comment on society’s [...]. This is shown in the play when [...] and [...]. Ultimately, Wilde wanted to say that [...].
a. The title of the play The Importance of Being Earnest (A Trivial Comedy for Serious People) is significant because it plays on the dual meaning of the word "earnest." The word earnest means serious and sincere, which is ironic given the characters' lack of seriousness throughout the play. This word applies to the play when Jack and Algernon both adopt the name Ernest in order to woo their respective love interests. They use the name earnestly, but in a trivial and insincere way, highlighting the superficiality and artificiality of society. The name Ernest also adds to the humor of the play, as the characters must navigate the consequences of their deceit in a witty and clever manner. Therefore, Wilde is communicating a message that the importance of being earnest is trivial and not a serious matter when it comes to societal norms and expectations.
b. The consumption of food is used as a symbol in the play to represent the superficiality and artificiality of high society. For example, the cucumber sandwiches in Act I signify the pretentiousness and extravagance of Lady Bracknell's world. When Algernon declares that he cannot eat them as they are not "fashionable to eat at tea," it reflects the absurdity of social norms dictating even the most mundane aspects of life. The food stands for the shallow and materialistic values of the upper class, who prioritize appearances and social status over genuine emotions and relationships. Oscar Wilde uses this symbolism to comment on society's obsession with material wealth and social standing, portraying it as empty and meaningless. This is shown in the play when characters like Lady Bracknell dismiss others based on their lack of wealth or pedigree, highlighting the ridiculousness of such superficial judgments. Ultimately, Wilde wanted to say that true values and virtues should not be determined by external factors like wealth or social status, but by one's character and integrity.