Lady Bracknell, a character in Oscar Wilde’s play “The Importance of Being Earnest,” is known for her sharp wit and biting remarks. Her lines have become iconic in the world of literature and theatre, captivating audiences with their cleverness and satirical humor.
One of Lady Bracknell’s most famous quotes is when she famously declares, “To lose one parent, Mr. Worthing, may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness.” This line perfectly encapsulates Lady Bracknell’s snobbish and judgmental nature, as she dismisses Jack Worthing’s explanation for being an orphan.
Another memorable line from Lady Bracknell is her response when Jack proposes to her daughter, Gwendolen. She exclaims, “A handbag?!” in utter disbelief, emphasizing her disdain for Jack’s humble origins and lack of wealth. This line has become a comedic highlight of the play, showcasing Lady Bracknell’s materialistic views and obsession with social status.
Lady Bracknell’s sharp tongue is also evident in her statement, “Ignorance is like a delicate exotic fruit; touch it, and the bloom is gone.” This line highlights her belief in the importance of knowledge and education, as she chastises Jack for his lack of understanding of certain social norms and expectations.
Finally, Lady Bracknell delivers the memorable line, “To be born, or at any rate bred, in a handbag, whether it had handles or not, seems to me to display a contempt for the ordinary decencies of family life that reminds one of the worst excesses of the French Revolution.” This line showcases Lady Bracknell’s dramatic flair and hyperbolic language, as she expresses her shock and disdain at Jack’s unconventional upbringing.
Overall, Lady Bracknell’s quotes in “The Importance of Being Earnest” offer a glimpse into the character’s snobbishness, materialism, and sharp wit. Her lines continue to entertain audiences and serve as a testament to Oscar Wilde’s mastery of dialogue and satire.
Top Lady Bracknell Quotes
- “To lose one parent, Mr. Worthing, may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness.”
- “Ignorance is like a delicate exotic fruit; touch it, and the bloom is gone.”
- “A handbag?!”
- “I never approved of engaged people flirting with each other. It’s very unseemly.”
- “Thirty-five is a very attractive age. London society is full of women of the very highest birth who have, of their own free choice, remained thirty-five for years.”
- “There is nothing romantic about a definite proposal. I think it is very unromantic to be in love. Until one is married, one is never in love. That is a great disadvantage. And then people who do marry too often think that they have done enough. Some men are continually being divorced by their wives, and they never even get a taste of married life.”
- “In matters of grave importance, style, not sincerity, is the vital thing.”
- “To speak frankly, I am not in favor of long engagements. They give people the opportunity of finding out each other’s character before marriage, which I think is never advisable.”
- “I never change, except in my affections.”
Famous Lines from the Play “The Importance of Being Earnest”
“To lose one parent, Mr. Worthing, may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness.” – Lady Bracknell
“Ignorance is like a delicate exotic fruit; touch it and the bloom is gone.” – Lady Bracknell
“I do not approve of anything that tampers with natural ignorance. Ignorance is like a delicate exotic fruit; touch it and the bloom is gone. The whole theory of modern education is radically unsound.” – Lady Bracknell
“Well, in the first place, girls never marry the men they flirt with. Girls don’t think it right.” – Lady Bracknell
“Never speak disrespectfully of Society, Algernon. Only people who can’t get into it do that.” – Lady Bracknell
“Thirty-five is a very attractive age. London society is full of women of the very highest birth who have, of their own free choice, remained thirty-five for years.” – Lady Bracknell
“Mr. Worthing, may I ask you distinctly to understand that you have no right whatsoever to enter my house on the day of my daughter’s engagement? Indeed, I forbid you to do so.” – Lady Bracknell
“To be born, or at any rate bred, in a hand-bag, whether it had handles or not, seems to me to display a contempt for the ordinary decencies of family life that reminds one of the worst excesses of the French Revolution.” – Lady Bracknell
“We live, I regret to say, in an age of surfaces.” – Lady Bracknell
“In matters of grave importance, style, not sincerity, is the vital thing.” – Lady Bracknell
The Charm of Inconvenience
One of the most memorable aspects of Lady Bracknell’s character in “The Importance of Being Earnest” is her insistence on the importance of inconvenience. Throughout the play, she repeatedly expresses her disdain for anything that is convenient or easy. She believes that the inconvenience of life adds a certain charm and sophistication.
In Act I, Lady Bracknell famously states, “I do not approve of anything that tampers with natural ignorance. Ignorance is like a delicate, exotic fruit; touch it and the bloom is gone. The whole theory of modern education is radically unsound. Fortunately in England, at any rate, education produces no effect whatsoever. If it did, it would prove a serious danger to the upper classes, and probably lead to acts of violence.”
This quote exemplifies Lady Bracknell’s view that convenience and ease lead to a lack of appreciation for the finer things in life. She believes that ignorance and inconvenience can be sources of amusement and entertainment.
In another memorable quote, Lady Bracknell exclaims, “To be born, or at any rate bred, in a hand-bag, whether it had handles or not, seems to me to display a contempt for the ordinary decencies of family life that reminds one of the worst excesses of the French Revolution.” Here, she is expressing her disapproval of the convenient and unconventional upbringing of the character Jack, who was found as a baby in a handbag.
Lady Bracknell’s admiration for inconvenience extends beyond education and upbringing. In Act III, she states, “In matters of grave importance, style, not sincerity, is the vital thing.” This suggests that Lady Bracknell values the appearance of inconvenience and formalities over genuine emotions or intentions.
Although Lady Bracknell’s views on inconvenience may seem extreme and outdated, they add depth and humor to her character. Her insistence on the importance of inconvenience serves as a critique of societal norms and expectations, and highlights the absurdity of valuing inconvenience for its own sake.
In conclusion, Lady Bracknell’s belief in the charm of inconvenience is a recurring theme in “The Importance of Being Earnest”. Her quotes on the subject provide insight into her character’s quirks and beliefs, and contribute to the overall satire of the play.
The Importance of Being Earnest
“The Importance of Being Earnest” is a play written by Oscar Wilde. First performed in 1895, it is a comedic masterpiece that satirizes the social norms and conventions of the Victorian era. The play follows the story of two young men, Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff, who create fictional personas in order to escape their societal responsibilities. Chaos ensues when their two worlds collide, and they find themselves entangled in a web of mistaken identities, love affairs, and witty banter.
One of the most memorable characters in the play is Lady Bracknell, a formidable and opinionated woman who serves as the voice of authority and societal norms. Lady Bracknell’s quotes are known for their sharp wit and biting commentary on the absurdities of the Victorian upper class. Her lines often poke fun at the rigid social hierarchy, gender roles, and the importance placed on lineage and wealth.
In the opening act of the play, Lady Bracknell delivers one of her most famous lines: “To lose one parent, Mr. Worthing, may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness.” This line encapsulates Lady Bracknell’s no-nonsense approach to life and her disdain for anything less than perfect propriety.
| Character | Quote |
|---|---|
| Lady Bracknell | “Never speak disrespectfully of Society, Algernon. Only people who can’t get into it do that.” |
| Lady Bracknell | “Ignorance is like a delicate exotic fruit; touch it, and the bloom is gone.” |
| Lady Bracknell | “I have always been of the opinion that a man who desires to get married should know either everything or nothing.” |
| Lady Bracknell | “To be born, or at any rate bred, in a handbag, whether it had handles or not, seems to me to display a contempt for the ordinary decencies of family life that reminds one of the worst excesses of the French Revolution.” |
Lady Bracknell’s character is a representation of the strict societal norms of the time, and her quotes serve as a humorous critique of the absurdity of these expectations. Through her sharp and memorable one-liners, Oscar Wilde highlights the hypocrisy and pretentiousness of the upper class, making “The Importance of Being Earnest” a timeless and entertaining play.
The Necessity of Having an Elaborate Past
In the play “The Importance of Being Earnest,” Lady Bracknell’s character is known for her witty and sharp lines. She is a representation of the upper-class society and their obsession with societal norms and appearances. One of the recurring themes in the play is the necessity of having an elaborate past, particularly for those who wish to be a part of high society.
Lady Bracknell’s famous quote, “To lose one parent, Mr. Worthing, may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness,” perfectly exemplifies her belief in the importance of one’s background. She regards a person’s lineage and social standing as crucial factors in determining their worthiness to be a part of high society.
According to Lady Bracknell, it is not enough to simply have wealth or charm; one must also have a respectable family background and history. She demands answers to questions about the origins of Ernest Worthing, the play’s protagonist, and disapproves when he fails to provide satisfactory responses. Lady Bracknell firmly believes that without an elaborate past, one’s present and future accomplishments hold little value.
This emphasis on the past demonstrates the superficiality of high society and their obsession with maintaining an illusion of grandeur and respectability. Lady Bracknell’s character serves as a satire of the aristocracy and their absurd values.
Throughout the play, Lady Bracknell’s obsession with one’s past becomes a source of humor and irony. While she focuses on the importance of an elaborate ancestry, other characters, such as Algernon, mock and subvert these expectations by creating fictitious personas and elaborate stories to fit in.
The necessity of having an elaborate past is a reflection of the society’s ridiculous standards and emphasizes the role of appearances in determining one’s worthiness. Lady Bracknell’s character serves as a reminder of the absurdity of societal norms and the importance placed on superficial distinctions rather than true qualities and values.
The Ideals of Sincerity
In “The Importance of Being Earnest”, Lady Bracknell is a character who values sincerity above all else. She believes that honesty and forthrightness are essential qualities in individuals, and she often expresses her disdain for deceit and hypocrisy. Lady Bracknell’s speeches and quotes throughout the play reflect her unwavering commitment to sincerity.
One of Lady Bracknell’s most famous lines that exemplify her ideals of sincerity is when she says, “To be natural is such a very difficult pose to keep up.” This statement reflects her belief that one should strive to be genuine and true to oneself, rather than feigning a certain persona or character.
Lady Bracknell also emphasizes the importance of honesty and openness when she tells Jack, one of the main characters, “Nothing is more deceiving than a truth that is half-told.” This quote highlights her belief that only by providing complete and truthful information can one maintain genuine relationships.
Furthermore, Lady Bracknell’s insistence on sincerity is evident in her reaction to the revelation of Jack’s true identity. When Jack discloses that he was found as a baby in a handbag at Victoria Station, Lady Bracknell replies, “A handbag?” with utter disbelief, emphasizing her distaste for anything less than complete honesty.
In summary, Lady Bracknell’s character in “The Importance of Being Earnest” stands as a symbol of the ideals of sincerity. Through her speeches and quotes, she champions the importance of being true to oneself, speaking the whole truth, and maintaining genuine relationships based on honesty and openness.
The Delicate Art of Not Being Seen
One of the most memorable lines from “The Importance of Being Earnest” is Lady Bracknell’s declaration that “to lose one parent, Mr. Worthing, may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness.”
This witty remark perfectly encapsulates Lady Bracknell’s character, as she is known for her sharp tongue and no-nonsense attitude. She is not one to mince her words and has a knack for making cutting observations with a hint of sarcasm.
Throughout the play, Lady Bracknell embodies a certain elegance and grace, but it is her ability to navigate social situations with precision that truly sets her apart. She is a master of the delicate art of not being seen.
Lady Bracknell’s power lies in her ability to blend in seamlessly, observing the world around her while remaining inconspicuous. She is always aware of her surroundings and the people in her company, carefully choosing her words and actions to maintain her aura of mystery.
But being unseen does not mean being unnoticed. Lady Bracknell’s presence is always felt, even when she is not directly engaged in conversation. Her silence speaks volumes, and her mere presence commands attention.
Lady Bracknell’s art of not being seen extends beyond the physical realm. She is also skilled at concealing her true emotions and intentions. Her outward appearance may be composed and calm, but underneath the surface, she is a force to be reckoned with.
Overall, Lady Bracknell’s delicate art of not being seen is a testament to her intelligence, wit, and the power of subtlety. Her ability to blend in while still leaving a lasting impression is a skill that few possess, making her one of the most fascinating characters in “The Importance of Being Earnest.”
The Trivialities of Family Lineage
The play “The Importance of Being Earnest” by Oscar Wilde brilliantly satirizes the trivialities and absurdities associated with family lineage. Lady Bracknell, as one of the most memorable characters in the play, embodies these obsessions with social status and pedigree.
Throughout the play, Lady Bracknell continually emphasizes the importance of family background when it comes to marriage prospects. She firmly believes that a person’s lineage determines their suitability as a spouse, stressing the need for a respectable family name and a documented ancestry.
Lady Bracknell’s famous line, “To lose one parent, Mr. Worthing, may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness,” perfectly captures her obsession with family lineage. She dismisses Jack Worthing’s lack of knowledge about his parents as a grave character flaw, attributing it to carelessness rather than unfortunate circumstances.
Another memorable quote by Lady Bracknell is, “We live, I regret to say, in an age of surfaces.” This remark highlights her disdain for a society that places undue importance on appearances and social standing. Lady Bracknell’s concern with lineage is deeply rooted in the superficiality of her time, where one’s family name and wealth outweighed personal qualities and virtues.
Furthermore, Lady Bracknell’s obsession with family lineage is portrayed through her relentless cross-examination of potential suitors. She interrogates Jack Worthing about his parentage, his social connections, and his financial background–all of which she equates with his eligibility as a husband. This relentless focus on lineage demonstrates Lady Bracknell’s belief that marriage should be based on social compatibility rather than love or personal qualities.
Oscar Wilde’s portrayal of Lady Bracknell and her preoccupation with family lineage serves as a critique of the societal norms of his time. Through her witty and memorable quotes, Wilde exposes the absurdity of attaching such significance to trivialities like family background while disregarding genuine human qualities.
In conclusion, the play “The Importance of Being Earnest” highlights the trivialities associated with family lineage through the character of Lady Bracknell. Wilde’s clever writing emphasizes the absurdity of giving so much importance to superficial factors while overlooking qualities that truly define a person. Lady Bracknell’s obsession with family lineage contributes to the overall satirical tone of the play and reinforces Wilde’s critique of Victorian society.
The Rigidity of Social Class
In “The Importance of Being Earnest,” Lady Bracknell represents the rigidity of social class in Victorian society. She is the embodiment of the upper class and is infamous for her elitist and snobbish comments. Through her character, Oscar Wilde satirizes the strict hierarchy of social class and highlights the absurdity of placing so much importance on one’s birth and social standing.
Lady Bracknell’s character is fixated on the idea that one’s social position is determined solely by their birth and lineage. She consistently emphasizes the importance of “good breeding” and finds it unacceptable for anyone outside her elite circle to marry into her family. Her famous line, “To lose one parent, Mr. Worthing, may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness,” highlights her disdain for those who do not possess a desirable familial background.
Throughout the play, Lady Bracknell’s interactions with the other characters expose the absurdity of her strict adherence to social class. She dismisses potential suitors for her daughter, Gwendolen, based solely on their financial standing and their family connections. This demonstrates the superficiality and shallowness of her character, as she values material wealth and pedigree above all else.
Oscar Wilde uses Lady Bracknell’s character to critique the rigidity of social class and the absurdity of its importance. He highlights the hypocrisy of a society that values birth and wealth over individuality and authenticity. Lady Bracknell’s elitism and snobbishness serve as a cautionary tale, illustrating the dangers of blindly adhering to social conventions and the damaging effects it can have on both individuals and society as a whole.
The Wisdom of Lady Bracknell
Lady Bracknell is one of the most iconic characters in “The Importance of Being Earnest”, and her sharp wit and no-nonsense attitude make her lines memorable and often quoted. Here are some of her most famous quotes that showcase her wisdom:
1. “To lose one parent, Mr. Worthing, may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness.”
This line is a prime example of Lady Bracknell’s ability to turn a serious situation into a comical one. It also highlights her belief in the importance of social status and propriety.
2. “A handbag?”
This one-word line has become one of Lady Bracknell’s signature quotes. It conveys her astonishment and disdain at the idea of someone not having a suitable accessory, like a handbag, which is considered an essential item for a lady of high society.
3. “To speak frankly, I am not in favor of long engagements. They give people the opportunity of finding out each other’s character before marriage, which I think is never advisable.”
Lady Bracknell’s pragmatic approach to marriage and relationships is reflected in this quote. She believes that getting to know someone too well before marriage can lead to unpleasant discoveries, and she sees shorter engagements as more suitable.
4. “Ignorance is like a delicate exotic fruit; touch it, and the bloom is gone. The whole theory of modern education is radically unsound. Fortunately in England, at any rate, education produces no effect whatsoever.”
This quote showcases Lady Bracknell’s skepticism towards modern education. She sees it as useless and believes that ignorance is preferable to knowledge, comparing knowledge to a delicate fruit that loses its charm once touched.
5. “In matters of grave importance, style, not sincerity, is the vital thing.”
Here, Lady Bracknell emphasizes the importance of appearances and manners over genuine feelings. She believes that one’s style of communication and behavior is more important than sincerity, especially in serious matters.
In conclusion, Lady Bracknell’s wisdom lies in her ability to provide comedic yet profound insights into the social norms and expectations of her time. Her quotes continue to be celebrated for their wit and timeless relevance.