Sketch the character of Lady Bracknell

Answer

Sketch the character of Lady Bracknell. [NU: 2016, 18, 20] ★★★  

In “The Importance of Being Earnest” (1895) by Oscar Wilde (1854–1900), Lady Bracknell is one of the funniest and strongest characters. She is the voice of the Victorian upper class. She values social position, money, and appearances above everything. Wilde uses her to mock the strict rules of his society. She appears as a strict woman but provides much of the play’s humor.  

Concern with Social Status: Lady Bracknell is most concerned with wealth and social class. She treats marriage like a business contract. When Jack asks to marry Gwendolen, she cares nothing for his love. She only asks about money and family. In Act, she says,

 “A man who desires to get married should know either everything or nothing. Which do you know?”. 

This line shows her shallow view. She wants to protect her daughter’s rank, not her happiness. For her, social status is more important than feelings. 

A Dominating Mother: Lady Bracknell is a very dominating mother. She keeps control over Gwendolen’s future and marriage. She does not let Gwendolen choose for herself. In Act, she says,

“When you do become engaged to someone, I, or your father, should his health permit him, will inform you of the fact.” 

This proves Lady Bracknell is a very commanding mother. She believes parents have the right to decide their children’s future. Her style reflects Victorian society, where children were often controlled by parents in matters of marriage and class.   

Hypocrisy and Greed: Lady Bracknell is also highly hypocritical. She sets rules for others but breaks them when it helps her. At first, she rejects Cecily as Algernon’s bride because she thinks Cecily is poor. However, when she learns that Cecily has a large inheritance, Lady Bracknell suddenly becomes very supportive of the marriage. She exclaims in Act III,

 “A hundred and thirty thousand pounds! And in the Funds!

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