Lady Windermere's Fan Analysis

It is almost impossible to keep a secret in the world of today. There are countless social media sites and other technological advancements have made keeping something from others virtually impossible. Although, in the 19th century, it was extremely likely that one could take a secret, even of the utmost importance, to the grave. In Oscar Wilde's “Lady Windermere's Fan” the main source of conflict stems from the relationship between Lord Windermere and Mrs. Erlynne. They are the holders of a secret that, if revealed, could entirely alter their lives. They are struggling with the decision of being truthful, or protecting the one they love. Should we tell her, or shouldn't we? That is the main question that haunts both Lord Windermere

Erlynne. If he decides to tell her the truth, the widely gossiped about Mrs. Erlynne would most likely ruin their lives. He knows that if Lady Windermere's name is associated with that of Mrs. Erlynne, it will bring disgrace to her. Also, Lady Windermere has a perfect vision of the mother she thought she had lost to death. If she finds out that this is not true, it will crush her spirit. Although, if he continues to keep the secret, their happy marriage may come crumbling down. Lady Windermere is distrustful of her husband because of the lies he has told, and it may become too late to make it

They can make or break relationships, and they can drastically alter lives. By the end of the play, each of the characters decide to hold onto their little secrets. They all come to the conclusion that keeping some things a mystery may sometimes be the best choice. The entire premise of this story the lies and secrecy between the three main characters, Lord Windermere, Lady Windermere, and Mrs. Erlynne. The characters realize that there are unnecessary consequences that could result from revealing the truth, and they make the decision to move on and try to go back to the way their lives used to