Oscar Wilde’s the Importance of Being Earnest Act II

Oscar Wilde’s the Importance of Being Earnest Act II

The main conflict in this part is about Person against Person; where in this case are Algernon against Jack and Gwendolen against Cecily.

1. Jack vs Algernon

In this part, story began with the pretence of Algernon who came to Manor House, Cardew’s residence, as Ernest Worthing. His arrival was purposed to meet Cecily and propose her. Because he knew that Cecily was admired and interested much in Ernest, so he decided to pretend as Jack’s brother. Furthermore, in the process of propose, unexpectedly the real Jack came to the house and ruined Algernon’s plan. At the same time, Jack’s plan of telling the terrible condition of his brother Ernest to Cardews was a mess too. Actually, Jack wanted to tell that to accomplish his plan to marry Gwendolen by getting rid of Ernest’s character.

For example:

- Jack“No. he died abroad; in Paris, in fact…” ( par 10, line 1, page 45)

- Algernon. “ Brother John, I have come down from town to tell you that I am very sorry for all the trouble I have given you, and that I intend to lead a better life on the future.” [Jack glares at him and does not take his hand](par 6, page 49)

- Jack.” … it is very painful for me to be forced to speak the truth. It is the first time in my life that I have ever been reduced to such a painful position, and I am really quite in experienced in doing anything of the kind. However, I will tell you quite frankly that I have no brother Ernest. I have no brother at all. I never had a brother in my life, and I certainly have not the smallest intention of ever having one in the future.” (par 6, page 70)

2. Cecily vs Gwendolen

There was a misunderstanding between Gwendolen and Cecily about Ernest who they believed as the same person that propose them, but actually the Ernest was different. Ernest who proposed Gwendolen was Jack and another Ernest who proposed Cecily was Algernon.

For example :

- Gwendolen. ”My darling Cecily, I think there must be some slight error. Mr. Ernest Worthing is engaged to me…”(par4, line 1-2, page 64)

- Cecily. “…I am afraid you must be under some misconception. Ernest proposed to me exactly ten minutes ago.”(par 5, page 64)