Born on this day October 16, 1854, Oscar Wilde, the prolific Irish author, poet, and playwright, is renowned for his wit, flamboyance, and literary genius. His works, ranging from the chilling novel The Picture of Dorian Gray to the comedic play The Importance of Being Earnest, have deeply influenced literature.
The Picture of Dorian Gray, Wilde’s only novel, is a haunting exploration of aesthetics, morality, and the human obsession with youth and beauty. The story revolves around a handsome young man named Dorian Gray whose portrait ages while he remains eternally youthful and indulges in all forms of pleasure and wickedness. Wilde’s exploration of hedonism in opposition to Victorian era’s strict moral codes is masterfully executed in this novel and gives readers a glimpse into his unconventional thinking.
On the other hand, The Importance of Being Earnest, arguably Wilde’s most popular play, showcases his wit and satire at its best. This comedy of manners satirizes Victorian society’s emphasis on trivialities and societal norms. The plot centres around two men who use the pseudonym ‘Earnest’ to escape their societal duties, leading to a comedy of errors. Wilde’s razor-sharp wit and his critical view of society’s hypocrisy shine through in this play.
In both works, Oscar Wilde employs his unique literary style and sharp commentary to question societal norms and explore the human condition. Despite their different genres and themes, both works exemplify Wilde’s ability to combine humor, drama, and profound thought in his writings. His works continue to be celebrated for their literary brilliance, wit, and insightful social commentary. The enduring popularity of these two iconic works by Oscar Wilde underlines his status as one of literature’s most influential figures.
“Yes: I am a dreamer. For a dreamer is one who can only find his way by moonlight, and his punishment is that he sees the dawn before the rest of the world.”
-Oscar Wilde, The Critic as Artist
Curated by Jennifer
