language - TIOBE Flashcards
What is an epigram and how are epigrams used in the play?
An epigram is a neatly expressed pronouncement that skewers an idea or convention important to society at the time. e.g “Ignorance is like a delicate exotic fruit; touch it and the bloom is gone.” and “In matter of grave importance, style, not sincerity, is the vital thing.” and “the only way to behave to a woman is to make love to her, if she is pretty, and to someone else if she is plain.” Here the logic of the first half of the statement is unexpectedly contradicted by the second. Thus, Wilde makes the characters endearingly amusing, but also mocks the pomposity and superficiality of his society. In keeping with his aestheticism philosophy, he demonstrates the dominance of verbal style over substance.
How is lyricism used in dialogue?
The women and men speak in repeated patterns and even in unison. The four protagonists approach and retreat from partners as though in formal dance until harmony is re-established. The lyricism culminates with a satire on conventional Melodrama as the couples move into orchestrated embraces and fall into each other’s arms. The lyricism has suggested restored harmony, yet the playwright mocks the sentimentality by the over-the-top double embrace. Perhaps Wilde is suggesting that courtship is simply an empty ritual, a socially pleasing routine performance.
How is language used as a weapon?
in the rivalry for social position. Most notably in the tea-table argument between the two young women. Similarly Lady B turns a cliche on its head to spiteful effect in her reference to the recently widowed Lady Harbury, who “looks quite twenty years younger” Algernon adds “ I hear her hair has turned quite gold from grief.” Suggesting this society is incapable of original though, resorting to trivial and empty forms of language, whilst casually reversing humane values, revealing its callousness and lack of sympathy. Two generations take part in exchange, suggesting the young are as heartless as the older members of society. The surface glitter of clever dialogue reflects icy nature of social relationships, yet elegance of wit counters audience’s disapproval. Simultaneously, playwright condemns character’s attitudes and values, but wins approval for their elegance of language and their style.
