The Importance of Being Ernest

Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest While some critics contend that The Importance of Being Earnest is completely fanciful and has no relation to the real world, others maintain that Oscar Wilde's trivial comedy for serious people does make significant comments about social class and the institution of marriage. These observations include the prevalent utilization of deceit in everyday affairs. Indeed the characters and plot of the play appear to be entirely irreverent, thus …

…the same that he has lied about throughout the entire play. Thus, the relationships forged arbitrarily on deceit and convenience are legitimated at the end of the play. Although Ernest declares, "I've realized now for the first time in my life the vital importance of Being Earnest", the statement is actually ironic because he had never been earnest at any point. In fact, the end is only the result of a coincidental twist of fate.