Exploring Earnest: A Critical Quiz

Analyze the motivations behind Jack Worthing's decision to create an alter ego named "Ernest." What does this reveal about his character?

• He wants to escape his responsibilities and live a carefree life.

• He desires to impress Gwendolen by appearing more sophisticated.

• He seeks to maintain a sense of control over his life.

• He wishes to explore different social circles without being judged.

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CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.6

CCSS.RL.8.6

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Interpret the theme of duality in "The Importance of Being Earnest" and how it is symbolized through the characters' actions.

• The duality represents the conflict between love and duty.

• The duality symbolizes the contrast between city and country life.

• The duality highlights the difference between appearance and reality.

• The duality signifies the struggle between wealth and poverty.

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RI.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

Evaluate the use of irony in Lady Bracknell's views on marriage. How does Wilde use this literary device to critique societal norms?

• Irony is used to show Lady Bracknell's progressive views on marriage.

• Irony highlights the absurdity of valuing social status over love.

• Irony is employed to emphasize Lady Bracknell's romantic ideals.

• Irony serves to underline the importance of financial stability in marriage.

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.7

CCSS.RI.11-12.7

CCSS.RL.11-12.7

CCSS.RL.8.7

CCSS.RL.9-10.7

Compare the perspectives of Jack and Algernon on the concept of "Bunburying." How do their views reflect their personalities?

• Jack sees it as a necessary evil, while Algernon views it as a delightful pastime.

• Jack considers it a moral failing, whereas Algernon sees it as a clever strategy.

• Jack believes it is a sign of weakness, while Algernon thinks it shows strength.

• Jack views it as a romantic gesture, whereas Algernon sees it as a practical solution.

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CCSS.RL.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Synthesize textual evidence to support the idea that Gwendolen's attraction to the name "Ernest" is a critique of superficiality in relationships.

• Gwendolen's insistence on the name shows her deep understanding of character.

• Her attraction to the name suggests a preference for style over substance.

• Gwendolen's focus on the name indicates her desire for stability.

• Her interest in the name reflects her rebellious nature against societal norms.

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RI.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

Analyze how Cecily's diary functions as a symbol in the play. What does it reveal about her character and her view of reality?

• The diary symbolizes Cecily's desire for adventure and excitement.

• It represents Cecily's need to control her own narrative.

• The diary highlights Cecily's romantic fantasies and detachment from reality.

• It signifies Cecily's intellectual aspirations and ambitions.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.10

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.10

CCSS.RL.9-10.10. RL.11-12.10

Interpret the significance of food and dining scenes in the play. How do they contribute to the development of themes?

• They emphasize the theme of indulgence and excess.

• They highlight the theme of social class and hierarchy.

• They underscore the theme of deception and pretense.

• They illustrate the theme of love and romance.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.10

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.10

CCSS.RL.9-10.10. RL.11-12.10

Evaluate the role of mistaken identity in the play. How does Wilde use this device to advance the plot and develop characters?

• Mistaken identity is used to create confusion and chaos.

• It serves to reveal the true nature of the characters.

• Mistaken identity is employed to highlight the importance of honesty.

• It is used to critique the rigid social structures of the time.

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RI.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

Compare the relationship dynamics between Jack and Gwendolen with those of Algernon and Cecily. How do these relationships reflect different societal expectations?

• Jack and Gwendolen's relationship is more traditional, while Algernon and Cecily's is more modern.

• Jack and Gwendolen's relationship is based on social status, whereas Algernon and Cecily's is based on genuine affection.

• Jack and Gwendolen's relationship is more formal, while Algernon and Cecily's is more playful.

• Jack and Gwendolen's relationship is more romantic, whereas Algernon and Cecily's is more pragmatic.

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CCSS.RL.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Synthesize evidence from the text to argue whether or not the play ultimately supports or critiques the institution of marriage.

• The play supports marriage by showing it as a source of happiness.

• The play critiques marriage by highlighting its superficial aspects.

• The play supports marriage by emphasizing its role in social stability.

• The play critiques marriage by portraying it as a financial arrangement.

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RI.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2