THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

This is our LAST work of English literature together!  It makes me sad to type that, actually.  I have truly enjoyed exploring classics together and teaching you this past year.

The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde

First performed on Valentine's Day, 1895 in London.
A farcical comedy, it touches on many of the same themes as The Rape of the Lock (written in 1714) and uses many of the same devices.  Both stories take place in and around London.

Terms to know and look out for:
Puns/double entendres
Irony-both situational and verbal
Epigrams/Witty dalogue
Foils

Themes to follow:
Marriage
Classism
Fictious self vs. True self
Fantasy vs. Reality*
Elite (habits and weaknesses)
Prejudice
Deception

Oscar Wilde:  Irish writer and considered one of the most popular playwrights in London.

*possible short answer question on exam