1.) At the beginning of the play, Algernon says to Lane, "I don't play accurately--any one can play accurately--but I play with wonderful expression. As far as the piano is concerned, sentiment is my forte. I keep science for Life." In what ways does this statement reflect the Aesthetic Movement, which embodied Wilde’s artistic (literary) philosophy? What can you infer about Algernon's character by this statement, and how do the values and beliefs expressed explain his behavior in the play? At what points does Algernon’s behavior connect with the Aesthetic Movement? In the Importance of Being Earnest, many characters embody the central idea around the Aesthetic Movement. The Aesthetic Movement was a literary movement that took place in the …show more content…
When Jack is trying to make his proposal to Gwendolen official, Lady Bracknell says multiple things that exemplify her view on love. When she discovers the side of Belgrave Square Jack lives on, she frankly says, “the unfashionable side” (ln 705). Lady Bracknell’s comment displays her pretentious character through her judgmental view on status. Her character is further elaborated through her reaction to Jack being found in a handbag. Her stubborn neglect to allow Gwendolen’s hand in marriage portrays her self-conceited, narcissistic view on …show more content…
Cecily’s constant though of love and daydreams of transforming an evil, wrong-doing boy into a desirable, well-behaved man conveys her naivety. Cecily’s diary entries also demonstrate her foolishness. When Algernon questions ever being engaged to Cecily, she responds with, “Of course it was. On the 22nd of las March. You can see the entry if you like. ‘Today I broke off my engagement with Ernest. I feel it is better to do so. The weather still continues charming’” (ln 656-660). Cecily’s reasoning with the weather displays her irrational thought process of love. Her fascination with changing Ernest into a better man blinds her moral compass and logical