An Ideal Husband

Definition

'An Ideal Husband' is a play written by Oscar Wilde that explores themes of morality, political corruption, and the complexities of marriage through the lens of comedy. The characters in the play grapple with the idea of what it means to be a 'perfect' partner while revealing the absurdities and hypocrisies of Victorian society. The work uses wit and irony to highlight social issues and the often unrealistic expectations placed on individuals in relationships, all while delivering a humorous critique of the comedy of manners genre.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'An Ideal Husband' premiered in 1895 and became one of Wilde's most popular plays, showcasing his distinctive style and sharp commentary on Victorian values.
2. The character of Sir Robert Chiltern embodies the struggle between public persona and private guilt, reflecting the play's exploration of hypocrisy in society.
3. The play addresses themes of blackmail and political corruption, illustrating how personal integrity can be compromised for public success.
4. Lady Chiltern represents the idealized wife who expects her husband to be morally perfect, challenging him to navigate societal pressures while maintaining honesty.
5. Wilde uses clever dialogue and intricate plot twists to keep audiences engaged while simultaneously critiquing the very ideals that characters strive for.

Review Questions

• How does Oscar Wilde utilize the character of Sir Robert Chiltern to explore themes of morality and hypocrisy in 'An Ideal Husband'?
  • Sir Robert Chiltern serves as a pivotal character through whom Wilde examines the conflicts between personal integrity and societal expectations. His initial portrayal as a successful politician with a seemingly perfect life is challenged by his past involvement in corruption. As the play unfolds, his struggle with maintaining his public image while confronting his moral failings highlights the hypocrisy prevalent in Victorian society, making audiences question the true nature of an 'ideal' individual.
• Analyze how Lady Chiltern's character contributes to the thematic development of marriage and idealism in 'An Ideal Husband.'
  • Lady Chiltern epitomizes the Victorian ideal of womanhood, embodying expectations for moral perfection in both herself and her husband. Her insistence on her husband's need for integrity reflects a broader societal pressure to uphold an ideal image. As she grapples with her disillusionment upon learning about Sir Robert's past mistakes, her character illustrates the complexities within marriage where love must navigate between idealism and reality. This tension drives the narrative forward, revealing how rigid ideals can lead to personal conflict.
• Evaluate how Wilde's use of comedy influences the audience's understanding of serious themes within 'An Ideal Husband.'
  • Wilde masterfully employs comedy to present serious themes such as political corruption and marital fidelity without alienating his audience. By using sharp wit and humor, he invites laughter while simultaneously provoking critical thought about societal norms. This juxtaposition allows audiences to reflect on the absurdities inherent in their own lives as they engage with deeper issues masked by lighthearted banter. Ultimately, this technique not only entertains but also encourages viewers to question their own ideals and moral standards in an often hypocritical society.

Related terms

Comedy of Manners: 'Comedy of manners' is a theatrical genre that satirizes the behavior and social conventions of a particular class, often focusing on the lives and loves of the upper crust, using humor and wit.

Wit: 'Wit' refers to the ability to express ideas in a clever and humorous way, often characterized by sharpness and a quick sense of humor, which is prevalent in Wilde's writing.

Social Satire: 'Social satire' is a literary device used to criticize societal norms and behaviors through humor, irony, or exaggeration, aiming to provoke thought and reflection among audiences.