Discuss how Oscar Wilde uses the characters of Cecily and Gwendolen in Act Two to satirise the behaviour and values of the upper classes.
Oscar Wilde uses wit and sarcasm to create humour in his play "The Importance of Being Earnest", to satirise English upper classes. The characters of Cecily and Gwendolen play a significant role in this.
As the two girls both determined to marry someone named Earnest, Cecily and Gwendolen provide a comical dispute, in which they exchange politely spoken witty insults. This light-hearted humour mocks the conduct and practices of upper class society. .
The conversation between the two women begins to alter as they realise they are both engaged to the same man. The tension intensifies, and the hostility they feel toward eachother becomes more apparent. Although the women's distaste for eachother is made very clear, they always converse politely and courteously. This is shown in the stage directions where it notes that Gwendolen should speak "with elaborate politeness". Here, Wilde is accentuating the over-polite behaviour of high society. .
Also, when commenting on Gwendolen's dislike for the country because she "hates crowds", Cecily retorts with a sarcastic remark "I suppose that is why you live in the town?" but, Wilde notes that she says this "sweetly". This pokes fun at the way polite society even insult each other in a very respectful and courteous manner. .
Wilde also notes in the stage directions the character's expressions. This occurs frequently throughout their conversation. For instance, during a pause in the dialogue, "Cecily and Gwendolen glare at eachother", demonstrating that although the characters hold severe contempt for one another, it is customary for the genteel to converse in this well-mannered way. This mocks the petty mannerisms and characteristics of the upper class.
The insults are generally quite subtle. Being of such high class, they are never blunt or abrupt in their speaking.
