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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.