L2L The Importance of Being Earnest

The Importance of Being Earnest

Oscar Wilde

This week, an oldie but goodie … and the rapacious wit of Irishman Oscar Wilde, who wore the persona of Englishman better than the “natives,” helped shaped the late-nineteenth century Decadent Movement, and ushered in modernity with unmatched style and flair. The Importance of Being Earnest is perhaps Wilde’s greatest work, first performed in 1895 and originally a play of four acts (and not three). Leigh and P. T. discuss (and debate) the earnestness of this “Trivial Comedy for Serious People” and why Wilde’s signature piece remains “durable fluff” even today.