Short Answer 
Lady Bracknell’s character in the Victorian era highlights the strict social codes surrounding marriage and relationships, particularly regarding social class. Her concerns about Algernon’s interest in Jack reflect the significant emphasis on hereditary status and societal acceptance, serving as both a barrier to love and a critique of class systems.
Step 1: Understanding Lady Bracknell’s Concerns
Lady Bracknell’s actions illustrate the stringent Victorian social codes that dictated relationships and marriage. Her disapproval of Algernon’s interest in Jack’s potential lower social standing highlights the importance placed on social class during this era. The perception of Jack, who was found at a railway station, raises concerns about his hereditary status and societal acceptance.
Step 2: Defining Social Codes
Social codes are established norms and standards that govern behavior and interactions within a society. These codes encompass various aspects, such as communication styles, dress, and class distinctions. In the context of the Victorian era, these codes heavily influenced who was deemed an acceptable match for marriage based on factors like wealth and lineage.
Step 3: Lady Bracknell’s Role in the Narrative
Lady Bracknell embodies the societal pressures of her time, demonstrating how social status can overshadow personal relationships. Her apprehensions about Algernon marrying someone of lower rank underscore her commitment to maintaining societal expectations. Thus, her character not only serves as a barrier to love but also as a critique of the rigid class systems of the Victorian age.