Love, Romance and Marriage

Question 1

In what way could love be seen as genuine?

Answer 1

• Algernon is against marriage in the beginning (‘Divorces are made in heaven) however is ultimately swayed by Cecily
• She seems to challenge him ‘[Looks at her in amazement] Oh!’ could be seen as endearing
• Jack relentless pursuit of Gwendolen may seem romantic
• Miss Prism and Dr Chasuble’s love may be seen as he is willing to forsake his religion

Question 2

In what way is love not genuine?

Answer 2

• Cecily does not genuinely love Algernon ‘ a girlish dream of mine to love someone whose name was Earnest’
• Algernon lies about his identity ‘Brother Jack’ (as does Jack ‘the truth isn’t quite the sort of thing one tells a nice, sweet refined girl’)
• Gwendolen’s love for Jack is performative ‘especially when there are other people present’ ‘I may marry someone else and marry often’
• Dr Chasuble and miss prism are used by Wilde to satirise religion and education

Question 3

What are three quotes about marriage?

Answer 3

• ‘I may marry someone else and marry often’
• ‘Divorces are made in heaven’
• ‘May i propose to you now?’