The Importance of Being Earnest Lrj #2

These problems that Algernon and Jack experience are rather frivolous. Algernon ate all of the cucumber sandwiches that were supposed to be for Lady Bracknell and then made Lane take the blame for it. Algernon made a very big deal about it even though Lady Bracknell didn't care that much. This problem Algernon experiences shapes his characteristics which he expresses in this play. It shows he is egotistical and self absorbed. Jack acts awkward when he is alone with Gwendolen. He is dismayed to learn that Gwendolen is attracted to him largely because of what she believes his name is Earnest. He is taken back by this and says, "I think, Jack, for instance, a charming name." (Wilde. p. 129) He tries to tell her that the name Earnest doesn't really fit him but she thinks it does. He then gets anxious and worried and exclaims that they must get married soon. Jack grows very uncomfortable which also shapes his character as to being someone weak and unstable.

Lady Bracknell comes off as the head of the house by giving her daughter the rights to marry Jack. She questions Jack to see if he is eligible to marry her daughter. "I am quite ready to enter your name, should your answer be what a really affectionate mother requires." (Wilde. p. 132) This shows that Lady Bracknell shows similar characteristics to women in the 1890s by running the household and helping her daughter decide what's best for her. In the 1890s men had a more dominant roll over women but Lady Bracknell seems to be dominant over men. This is shown when Algernon apologizes for not having the cucumber sandwiches so dramatically. "I am greatly distressed, Aunt Augusta, about there being no cucumbers, not even for ready money." (Wilde. p. 126) It seems as if people are scared of her because she has so much control over the house. Gwendolen is perceived as a normal woman in the 1890s. She obeys her mother and let's her make important decisions for her like getting married. Even though she loves Jack she still obeys her mother, "Ernest, we may never be married. From the expression on mamma's face I fear we never shall." She also fits in as a woman from the 1890s because of the transportation she uses. Jack says, "You will let me see you to your carriage." (Wilde. p. 140) This form of transportation was quite common in the 1890s.