Oscar Wilde and Victorian Morality

Paper Summary:

In this paper, the writer discusses the institution of marriage as demonstrated in the Victorian play 'The Importance of Being Earnest' by Oscar Wilde. The writer shows that the morality of being unity with a loved one is certainly the external social apparatus of Victorian marriage, but Wilde often points out the reality of patriarchal institutions that make marriage more like a business. Further the writer demonstrates that by realizing what moral virtues uphold the union of man and woman in love; the contrary affect of female abuse and sublimation are often the satirical reality in Wilde's classic play.

From the Paper:

"This drama study will examine the morality of the Victorian marriage within the context of Oscar Wilde's 'The importance of Being Earnest'. By defining the often patriarchal nature of marriage in the Victorian period, one can realize the social institution that forged the strict observance of men and women being `one' through a legal and moral binding. However, Oscar Wilde often conflicts with the institution of marriage, and argues that it is a business, rather than a pleasure. In essence, the Victorian institution of marriage is often hypocritical in that it portrays an image of money and legality, which denies the supposed moral pleasure of loving commitment. The opening First Act presents the conflict of pleasure and business in relation to marriage, as Algernon and his butler Lane discuss the topic of morality in marriage."

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