Character functions

Question 1

Jack

Answer 1

Narrative arc of the play – determined by Jack search for Identity.
Seriousness contrasts with Algy’s frivolous dandyism.
Is her really called Ernest? Left open by the script as wilde put it ‘In matters of art’ the truth is ‘one’s last mood’.
Left open in Anthony Asquith’s 1952 film version – Kack slams book shut.
Oliver parkers 2002 – shows name to be ‘Jhon’.
Jack ‘I mean it is naturally Earnest.’ – naturally could mean ‘of course’ or could mean his nature is earnest – which should determine his name – ironic – his nature is not earnest.

Question 2

Algernon

Answer 2

The Dandy – icon of style and taste, elegant epithets, wordplay.
Typical aesthetes – turns idleness into an art – a way of living.
Function – to teach the audience about style: play piano not accurately but with ‘wonderful expression’ Lady Bracknell says ‘he has nothing, but looks everything’. Social charisma.
Hid and Jack drive the plot – struggle to escape consequences of their double life – Join forces ‘to whistle some dreadful popular from a British Opera’.

Question 3

Lady Bracknell

Answer 3

-Represents all that is valued in aristocratic society – wealth and rank.
-Young Lovers ranged against her.
-Formidable woman.
-Structurally isolated – evident in the final tableau of the play.
-Role in the plot – initially to obstruct marriage – comic villain/obstacle.
-Personally unsympathetic and politically reactionary.