Algernon And Earnest Essay, Research Paper

In this play, being earnest is made as superficial a trait as possible; it means

simply having the name Earnest. The characters are motivated and controlled by a

hollow and artificial set of social standards that have little substance but are

used to maintain social distinctions and social class privileges. Against this

rigid system of controls the young lovers pursue their dreams of romance. The

play is structured as a series of verbal fencing matches in which showing the

right form is as important as making one’s point. The plot is nonsensical, a

mere excuse for causing the lovers some temporary setbacks before the inevitable

comic happy ending. The tone is brightly serious; none of the characters have

any inkling that they are speaking absurdities. Even the self-indulgent Algernon

is earnest in his self-indulgence.