Brief Comparison Of Being Earnest And A Doll's House

Looking at A Doll House by Henrik Ibsen and The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde through a societal lense aids the reader in developing a new understanding for the upper class, one that is very shallow, superficial, and scandalous. When analyzing A Doll House through a societal lense, it becomes apparent that even those looked up upon in society have their secrets. During the late 1800s, women had very few rights, which consequently led to them being treated very poorly by the men in their lives. This is clearly seen in Torvald’s relationship with Nora in that she is the submissive one in the relationship. The nicknames he calls her and the way he shows his affection towards (grabbing her waist, patting her head, etc.) further illustrates

During the Victorian Era, society was separated into three social classes: working class, middle class, and aristocracy. The difference in classes was clearly apparent by their clothing, place of residence and social values. For example, the play begins with Algernon and Jack discussing the preparation of cucumber sandwiches for Aunt Augusta’s visit. The discussion of food seems to be of more importance to Algernon, a man raised in the city, than does Jack’s future engagement to Gwendolen, a man accustomed to the country. The difference in class is further demonstrated when Mrs. Bracknell, Gwendolen’s mother, interrogates Jack after his proposal. She is beyond delighted that Jack shares a great deal of wealth and investments, but her opinion suddenly turns sour when she learns that he has no known relations. Due to the agricultural depression at the time, those in the aristocracy and those who had their primary investments in land suffered the greatest. Additionally, this is demonstrated when Mrs. Bracknell learns of Cecily’s significant inheritance and her social possibilities after her prior hesitation to Cecily’s engagement to Algernon. Clearly, wealth is of much importance to those living in the upper class, and could even result in marriage between social classes to obtain their wealth.