Written by Oscar Wilde in 1940, “The Importance of Being Earnest” is a wonderful and light read, and with each passing read, a new discovery is made. This story portrays what happens when lies catch up with us, but with a comedic and romantic ending that slightly nullifies the emphasis on the moral. 

One of the main male characters in this story lives a double life, while the other main male character has created a false excuse to be able to do as he pleases. As most do, the lies got tangled up and revealed. 

Wilde portrays the hypocrisy and absurdity of certain societal norms through characters such as Lady Bracknell, who states that “To lose one parent, Mr. Worthing, may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness”. 

This was the first play by Oscar Wilde I had read and thus I have a particularly strong emotional connection with it. After reading all of his plays, I believe that The Importance of Being Earnest is the best place to start when one is a novice to the world of Oscar Wilde. It introduced you expertly to his style of writing, criticism, and humor. For instance, one of the aspects of most of Oscar Wilde’s plays that I adore is how he concludes the play: a happy ending that is numerous and ironic. The ending leaves you with a smile on your face and the play actually feels concluded. After I had read the play, I adored it so much that I couldn’t help but watch the movie directed by Oliver Parker the next night. I must say it was done outstandingly and had a wonderful cast (especially Colin Firth, who played Ernest himself and had previously played Mr.Darcy in BBC’s Pride and Prejudice). I highly recommend this book.