Politics Flashcards
One of the older characters in the play, Lady Markby’s conversation is often a variation on “how things have changed.” Here she seems to long for a bygone past when the House of Commons was more ceremonial than effective.
“Really, now that the House of Commons is trying to become useful, it does a great deal of harm.” (LADY MARKBY)
Politics is the main antagonist of the play. With the storyline being pushed by a political argument
“Politics are my only pleasure.” (MRS. CHEVELEY)
This is early in his conversations with Mrs. Cheveley – before she reminds him of the ignoble moment that bought him this noble political career. One immoral act has enabled him to do a lot of good. The only problem is that she is not willing to forget that original, immoral act.
“A political life is a noble career!” (SIR ROBERT CHILTERN)
While Sir Robert understands politics as a narrative of progress, Mrs. Cheveley sees it almost like a fickle frenemy, sometimes for her, sometimes against her.
“Sometimes. And sometimes it is a clever game, Sir Robert. And sometimes it is a great nuisance.” (MRS. CHEVELEY)
Lord Goring is a DANDY. He likes to pretend that political engagement is too much for him.
Speaks on how society is becoming too political
“I adore political parties. They are the only place left to us where people don’t talk politics.” (LORD GORING)
For Lady Basildon, politics are useful in social settings. She can show off her learning but she doesn’t really have to engage with contrary opinions.
“I delight in talking politics. I talk them all day long. But I can’t bear listening to them.” (LADY BASILDON)
Lord Caversham is old-fashioned and idealistic about politics.
A career in Parliament might save his son from being such a public embarrassment.
“I wish you would go into Parliament.” (LORD CAVERSHAM)
Lord Goring is very hard headed about what he does and doesn’t want. He is skeptical of the machine of politics of politician’s motives
Criticism of people who run the country.
“My dear father, only people who look dull ever get into the House of Commons, and only people who are dull ever succeed there.” (LORD GORING)
One of the funny/sad ironies that keeps popping up is Lord Caversham’s total dismissal of his son as a useful human being.
He wishes Lord goring would have more of a political life
“You have got what we want so much in political life nowadays - high character, high moral tone, high principles. [To LORD GORING.] Everything that you have not got, sir, and never will have.” (LORD CAVERSHAM)
