Download The Importance of Being EarnestAct 1 questions 2023

The Importance of Being Earnest
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Act 1
What do we learn about Jack’s background? Why is Jack called Earnest when he is in London?
Who is Bunbury? Why is he important to Algernon?
Who are Cecily and Gwendolen? Explain their connection to Jack and /or Algernon.
Why does Jack initially lie about his relationship to Cecily? What does his decision to lie say about his
attitude toward Algernon?
What is a “Bunburyist”? Why does Algernon find it necessary to be one?
Describe the relationship between Jack and Algernon. Use PEE to answer.
In what ways do Algernon and Jack’s views about love and marriage differ? Use specific lines from
the script to support your ideas.
Explain the ridiculousness of Jack’s romantic origins.
9. Examine the interview between Lady Bracknell and Jack to answer the questions that follow:
a) Why is Jack being interviewed?
b) What does she ask Jack about? Complete the table below with her questions and reactions.
Lady Bracknell’s questions
Jack’s answers
Do you smoke?
Well, yes, I do smoke.
Lady Bracknell’s reaction
I know nothing, Lady Bracknell.
Twenty-nine.
It’s between seven and eight
thousand
pounds a year.
From investments.
I have lost both my parents.
I’m afraid that I don’t know,
Lady Bracknell.
I said that I had lost my
parents.
c) Why is his request not granted?
10. Write a description of Lady Bracknell’s character using relevant adjectives from the list below.
Support your answer using PEE.
Reserved
aristocratic
snobbish
overbearing
timid
Witty
prejudiced
earnest
inarticulate
arrogant
Courteous
haughty
patronizing
thoughtful
controlling
Group work:
Define dramatic irony. Identify moments in Act I when Wilde utilizes irony as a comedic device.