Short Answer 
Oscar Wilde’s “Importance of Being Earnest” critiques Victorian societal norms through humor and sarcasm, particularly focusing on the themes of sincerity and marriage. The play highlights the contradiction between superficial virtue and genuine actions, suggesting that true morality may require navigating hypocrisy.
Step 1: Understanding Oscar Wilde’s Context
Oscar Wilde, a prominent playwright, used sarcasm strategically to critique societal norms, particularly during the Victorian era when his play “Importance of Being Earnest” was released in 1898. His comedic yet sharp portrayals forced the audience to reflect on their adherence to social codes. His use of irony serves as a mirror to the rigid moral expectations of his time.
Step 2: Themes of the Play
The central theme of the play revolves around sincerity and the institution of marriage, which drives the narrative forward. The characters discuss the pleasure and challenges associated with marriage, showcasing diverse cynical views. Alongside marriage, the theme of morality emerges, where vigorous debates highlight the characters’ ethical boundaries and their often hypocritical behaviors toward virtue.
Step 3: The Paradox of Sincerity
A key paradox presented in Wilde’s play is the contradiction between superficial virtue and genuine actions. The protagonist’s struggles illustrate the idea that characters marked by seriousness may actually harbor darker traits. Wilde insinuates that to be truly moral in a flawed society, one might need to seem morally questionable, reflecting a timeless relevance that resonates with contemporary audiences.