1 of 1

Write now Article Tools

It could be argued that all of the characters in "A Woman of No Importance" embody certain elements of Oscar Wilde's ideology and indeed the main themes and allusions of the plot, sexual exploits/class systems/reputation//excitement in life, seem to be based on the themes in Wilde's own life. Hester portrays some of the Puritanical views and is representative of a state unbound by class barriers which is an idea which appealed to Wilde. Her American heritage also links to the American culture and way of living which Wilde loved so much. Kelvil also holds views on society similar to those of Wilde and seems very sympathetic and aware of the lower classes in a socialist kind of way. This socialist attitude extends to his appreciation of woman's equality with men and like Wilde seems to be almost a male Feminist. Other characters such as Lady Caroline seem to be deliberately juxtaposed to the morality of Wilde and seem to be hyperbolically described to emphasise the problem with such views and show Wilde's distaste for such people/

However it is the characters of Lord Illingworth and Mrs Allonby who best embody Wilde's views and their "Carpe Diem", live life to the full without restriction or restraint, especially in terms of sexual indulgence and flirtation seem identical to the descriptions we have of how Wilde lived his own life.

In the First Act we can read into Wilde's views on America through the speech of Hester who enters the now money/old money debate by stating of those who have worked hard and are reaping the awards. "In America, those are the people we admire the most." Wilde loved America, possibly because he was welcomed and revered there so enthusiastically after his first visit in 1881. Hester is used as a continuous link in the play to juxtapose the theology of America and England, with their equal chance and opportunity society, and class barrier rigid society respectively. In the first act we also hear a lot from Mr Kelvil who is without doubt a person whose political views would in the modern world be regarded as socialist. "I find that the poorer classes of this country display a marked desire for a higher ethical standard" is one of the quotes he uses to show his sympathetic nature towards the lower classes. This view is totally juxtaposed with Lady Hunstanton and her fellow companions who seem to view the class barriers as vital mechanism to subdue and restrict the lower class. Kelvils distaste for such a rigid class driven society

• 1
• 2
• 3
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Essays: Oscar Wilde and his personal influence within his plays?
We want to hear your view. Write now!