Question

What do both Cecily and Gwendolen insist on?

• A. That their husbands be rich
• B. That they can only marry a man named Ernest
• C. That they move to London
• D. That they leave England

Answer 1

Answer:

B. That they can only marry a man named Ernest

In "The Importance of Being Earnest," both Cecily and Gwendolen insist on marrying a man named "Ernest," believing the name itself signifies a desirable character and is a prerequisite for love, highlighting the play's satirical take on societal expectations and superficiality. 

Name as a symbol:

• They see the name "Ernest" as a symbol of a perfect, respectable man, not considering the actual person behind the name. 

Social conformity:

• Their fixation on the name reflects the shallow values of their social class, where appearances and outward conventions matter significantly. 

Conflict arises:

• When they both become engaged to men pretending to be "Ernest," a comical conflict arises as they argue over who has the right to the name.