Question

In which two locales does the protagonist lead his dual lives as Jack and Ernest Worthing?

• A. Coventry and London
• B. West Orange and New York
• C. Hertfordshire and London
• D. St. Andrews and Edinburgh

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Hertfordshire and London

The protagonist, Jack Worthing, leads his dual lives in Hertfordshire and London:

1. Hertfordshire (The Country) – Where he is known as Jack Worthing

   • Jack is a respectable guardian to Cecily Cardew.

   • He upholds a moral and responsible image, acting as a model gentleman.

   • He pretends to have a mischievous brother named "Ernest" in London, which gives him an excuse to leave whenever he wants.

2. London (The City) – Where he is known as Ernest Worthing

   • In London, he assumes the identity of "Ernest", allowing him to enjoy a more carefree, bachelor lifestyle.

   • He courts Gwendolen Fairfax, who is infatuated with the name "Ernest", believing it represents integrity and charm.

Why This Matters

• The contrast between Hertfordshire (duty, order) and London (freedom, deception) reflects the theme of duality and hypocrisy in Victorian society.

• Wilde uses this double life to satirize social expectations, showing how people bend the truth to suit their desires.

• The ultimate irony is that Jack discovers his real name was Ernest all along, making his deception hilariously pointless.

This comedic use of dual identities and mistaken truths is central to The Importance of Being Earnest!