Earnest Quotes

Question 1

If the lower orders don’t set us a good example, what on earth is the use of them?

Answer 1

Algernon, about Lanes marriage. Subversion, people only think they are good for working.

Question 2

When one is in town one amuses oneself. When one is in the country one amuses other people.

Answer 2

Jack, to A. About people’s different lives etc.

Question 3

…you couldn’t love me if my name wasn’t Ernest?

Answer 3

Jack, to G. All about appearance. G is fickle and self-absorbed.

Question 4

I must get christened at once- I mean we must get married at once.

Answer 4

J- stumble on words, christened to change name- disguise.

Question 5

A hand-bag?

Answer 5

LB- cares for appearance

Question 6

I loathe listening. // I hate talking.

Answer 6

J hates listening and talking. Like an object. Fake.

Question 7

None of us are perfect.

Answer 7

DrC, inverted. Not moralistic.

Question 8

My child! my child!

Answer 8

Stock character- innocent child

Question 9

…to love you wildly, passionately, devotedly, hopelessly.

Answer 9

Shallow- doesn’t make sense

Question 10

‘I broke off my engagement to Ernest. I feel it is better to do so. The weather still continues charming’

Answer 10

Fickle

Question 11

I must see him at once on a most important christening- I mean on most important business

Answer 11

Mirroring and repetition to earlier in play

Question 12

In matters of grave importance, style, not sincerity is the vital thing.

Answer 12

Aristocratic- sums them all up

Question 13

I do not propose to undeceive him

Answer 13

Inversion- not the typical way for a woman to speak about their husband

Question 14

Why should there be one law for men, and another for women?

Answer 14

Unmarried women are treated badly- Wilde’s personal opinion

Question 15

I’ve now realised for the first time in my life the vital Importance of Being Earnest

Answer 15

Pun