Themes in The Importance of Being Earnest

1. Sincerity vs Hypocrisy.

This is one of the most prevalent themes that runs throughout the play. Many scenes reflect this theme, such as when Gwendolen and Cecily had a catfight over their soon-to-be husbands, but disguise it with behind polite tea conversation. Another example is when Lady Bracknell interrogates Jack about Cecily with the aim of judging her suitability as a wife.

2. Double Life (aka Bunbury).

All the main characters lead a double life. Jack invented an imaginary brother named Ernest who allowed him to do all sorts of things in the town. Algernon invented an imaginary friend named Bunbury who enables him to escape his responsibilities and go to the country. Gwendolen is fixated on marrying someone named Ernest that by the time Jack proposes, she has already constructed a romance in her mind.

3. Marriage.

There are several exchanges in the play about marriage. In the beginning, Algernon and Lane are discussing marriage and whether or not it's desirable. For Cecily, marriage is way to fulfill her fantasy romance and continue her and Ernest's story. For Lady Bracknell, marriage is based on financial stability and social respectability.

4. Earnest or Ernest?

In the Importance of being Earnest, Wilde twists and plays with the Victorian character. Earnestness implies serious and boring, reflecting the Victorian character. For Wilde, the word earnest is comprised of two things: false truth and false morality. The moralism of Victorian society impels Algernon and Jack to invent imaginary people in order to escape responsibilities.