What qualities does Lady Bracknell believe are essential for a …

English Questions
Short Answer
Step by Step Solution
English Questions

Select the correct answer from each drop-down menu.Read this excerpt from The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde. Then complete the sentence that follows.LADY BRACKNELL (Glares at JACK for a few moments. Then bends, with a practised smile, to CECILY): Kindly turn round, sweet child. (She turns completely round.) No, the side view is what I want. (Cecily presents her profile.) Yes, quite as I expected. There are distinct social possibilities in your profile. The two weak points in our age are its want of principle and its want of profile. The chin a little higher, dear. Style largely depends on the way the chin is worn. They are worn very high, just at present. Algernon!Lady Bracknell represents typical Victorian views on marriage. According to her, _____ and _____ are the essential qualities for a perfect match for her nephew, Algernon.ResetNext

Short Answer

Lady Bracknell in ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ represents the Victorian view of marriage, emphasizing social status, adherence to societal norms, and financial security as key criteria. Her stringent standards critique the superficial nature of societal expectations, prompting reflection on the authenticity of love versus social obligations in marriage.

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Understand Lady Bracknell’s Role

Lady Bracknell embodies the Victorian perspective on marriage within Oscar Wilde’s play, ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’. Her character represents the upper class and the societal expectations surrounding marriage during this era. She emphasizes the importance of social status, suggesting that marriage is not only a personal choice but also a social obligation.

Step 2: Explore Her Criteria for Marriage

Lady Bracknell outlines several key criteria that she believes are essential for a successful marriage. These criteria include:

  • Social Status: A potential spouse must come from a reputable and wealthy family.
  • Adherence to Societal Norms: Individuals must conform to societal expectations and behaviors in their relationships.
  • Financial Security: A match should bring financial stability and improve social standing.

Step 3: Analyze the Impact of Her Views

Lady Bracknell’s views significantly impact the narrative and characters’ relationships in the play. Her stringent requirements for marriage serve to critique the superficial nature of societal norms. Additionally, they provoke discussions about love and authenticity, questioning whether marriage should be based on genuine affection or social convenience.

Related Concepts

Victorian Perspective

The prevailing attitudes and societal norms regarding marriage during the victorian era, emphasizing social obligations and class distinctions.

Upper Class

A social class consisting of individuals with significant wealth, prestige, and influence, often associated with strict adherence to social norms and expectations.

Social Status

The relative standing or rank of an individual within society, which influences personal relationships and marriage choices, particularly emphasizing wealth and family background.

Table Of Contents
  1. Select the correct answer from each drop-down menu.Read this excerpt from The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde. Then complete the sentence that follows.LADY BRACKNELL (Glares at JACK for a few moments. Then bends, with a practised smile, to CECILY): Kindly turn round, sweet child. (She turns completely round.) No, the side view is what I want. (Cecily presents her profile.) Yes, quite as I expected. There are distinct social possibilities in your profile. The two weak points in our age are its want of principle and its want of profile. The chin a little higher, dear. Style largely depends on the way the chin is worn. They are worn very high, just at present. Algernon!Lady Bracknell represents typical Victorian views on marriage. According to her, _____ and _____ are the essential qualities for a perfect match for her nephew, Algernon.ResetNext

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