Literature-In-English Paper 3 May/June 2015

Question 7

      The Importance of Being Ernest

    Comment on the use of irony in the play.


Observation

This was a popular question. Some of the candidates were able to bring out instances of irony in the play while others concentrated on its plot.

The required answers should include:

  • Algernon’s argument with Jack over Jack’s cigarette case.
  • The double identity of Jack which is replicated in Algernon’s “Bunburyism”
  • Lady Bracknell who married with hardly any wealth is seen rating people for their wealth.
  • The desire for the name Ernest.
  • The abandoning of a baby at the railway station in a bag instead of in a pram.

  • Candidates’ performance in the question was fair.