Question 8
OSCAR WILDE: The Importance of Being Ernest
Analyse the character of Algernon as a fun-loving aristocrat.
Observation
A good number of candidates attempted this question. However, many of them gave a character sketch of Algernon but did not portray him as a young aristocrat who found the aristocratic life rather boring and created fun for himself.
The required answers should include:
- Algernon escapes the madding aristocratic class by creating an invalid friend called Bunbury in the country, who is continually sick and needs his care.
- Algernon comes upon Jack’s cigarette case. The message involving an “aunt” of Jack gives Algernon vivacious interest in Cecily.
- Algernon eavesdrops on Gwendolen and Jack’s conversation on Jack’s address; he then goes off to find Cecily, Jack’s ward.