Satire and Irony in Earnest Act 2

In Act 2 of "The Importance of Being Earnest," which of the following is an example of irony?

• Cecily's belief that Algernon is Jack's brother.

• Gwendolen's insistence on marrying a man named Ernest.

• Miss Prism's disapproval of Jack's younger brother, Ernest.

• Lady Bracknell's approval of Cecily's wealth.

Answer explanation

Gwendolen's insistence on marrying a man named Ernest is ironic because she is unaware that Jack is not actually named Ernest, highlighting the absurdity of her fixation on the name rather than the man's true identity.

What is Algernon's primary motivation for visiting Jack's country house in Act 2?

• He wants to escape his debts in the city.

• He desires to meet Cecily.

• He is curious about Jack's double life.

• He is invited by Jack for a weekend retreat.

Answer explanation

Algernon's primary motivation for visiting Jack's country house is to meet Cecily, as he is intrigued by her and wants to pursue a romantic connection, making this the correct choice.

Which satirical element is most evident in Lady Bracknell's views on marriage?

• Irony

• Exaggeration

• Parody

• Understatement

Answer explanation

Lady Bracknell's views on marriage are characterized by exaggeration, as she presents absurdly rigid and superficial criteria for suitability, highlighting the ridiculousness of societal norms surrounding marriage.

How does Oscar Wilde use exaggeration to critique social norms in Act 2?

• By depicting Cecily's obsession with her diary.

• By highlighting the triviality of the characters' concerns.

• By emphasizing the importance of wealth in marriage.

• By showing the characters' excessive politeness.

Answer explanation

Wilde critiques social norms by emphasizing the importance of wealth in marriage, showcasing how characters prioritize financial status over genuine connection, thus highlighting the absurdity of their values.

What theme is explored through the character of Miss Prism in Act 2?

• The folly of romantic ideals.

• The hypocrisy of social classes.

• The absurdity of moral standards.

• The value of education.

Answer explanation

Miss Prism's character highlights the absurdity of moral standards, as her rigid adherence to societal expectations contrasts with the chaotic reality of her life, revealing the inconsistencies in moral judgments.

Summarize a key plot development in Act 2.

• Jack proposes to Gwendolen.

• Algernon and Cecily become engaged.

• Lady Bracknell discovers Jack's true identity.

• Miss Prism reveals her past mistake.

Answer explanation

In Act 2, a significant plot development occurs when Algernon and Cecily become engaged, marking a pivotal moment in their relationship and advancing the storyline of romantic entanglements.

Identify the irony in Cecily's belief about her engagement to Algernon.

• She believes it is real, but it is a fantasy.

• She thinks Algernon is Jack's brother.

• She assumes Algernon is wealthy.

• She believes Algernon is sincere.

Answer explanation

Cecily's belief that her engagement to Algernon is real highlights the irony, as it is based on a deception. She is unaware that her romantic notion is merely a fantasy, showcasing the contrast between her perception and reality.

Analyze Jack's motivation for maintaining a double life.

• He wants to escape his responsibilities.

• He desires to impress Gwendolen.

• He seeks adventure and excitement.

• He wishes to protect Cecily.

Answer explanation

Jack's double life primarily stems from his desire to escape his responsibilities. By adopting an alternate identity, he avoids the obligations tied to his real life, allowing him to live more freely.

What satirical strategy does Wilde use in Cecily's interactions with Algernon?

• Irony

• Hyperbole

• Sarcasm

• Parody

Answer explanation

Wilde employs hyperbole in Cecily's interactions with Algernon, exaggerating her feelings and reactions to create humor and highlight the absurdity of social conventions, making her character's naivety and romantic ideals more pronounced.

Evaluate the use of exaggeration in Lady Bracknell's character.

• Her disdain for the lower classes.

• Her obsession with social status.

• Her love for her daughter.

• Her fear of scandal.

Answer explanation

Lady Bracknell's character is marked by her exaggerated obsession with social status, as she prioritizes lineage and wealth over personal qualities, showcasing the absurdity of Victorian social norms.