Question

What are Cecily and Gwendolen eager to do after leaving Algernon and Jack in the garden?

• A. Discuss the deceptions
• B. Exact revenge
• C. Call off their engagements
• D. Forgive the men

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Discuss the deceptions

• After leaving Algernon and Jack in the garden, Cecily and Gwendolen are eager to forgive them—but only under one condition: the men must be christened as "Ernest."

• Despite their initial anger, the women quickly soften when they hear that both Jack and Algernon have already made arrangements to be rechristened under the name "Ernest." This reassures them that their romantic ideal will still be fulfilled.

• This moment is hilariously ironic, as it shows that Cecily and Gwendolen care more about the name than the actual character of their fiancés. Wilde uses this to mock the Victorian obsession with appearances over reality—the name "Ernest" is valued more than actual earnestness (honesty and sincerity).