Question

What does Cecily think about "Ernest"?

• A. She is fascinated by his "wicked" nature
• B. She is scared of him
• C. She doesn’t believe he exists
• D. She wants to send him away

Answer 1

Answer:

A. She is fascinated by his "wicked" nature

In "The Importance of Being Earnest," Cecily is completely infatuated with the name "Ernest," believing it to be the epitome of a charming and desirable man; she has a romantic fantasy built around a man named Ernest, even going so far as to imagine a relationship with Jack's fictional brother "Ernest" despite not knowing him personally, solely because of the name itself. 

• Romantic ideal:

• She sees the name "Ernest" as a symbol of a man with good character, charm, and a slightly rebellious streak. 

• Fantasy fixation:

  Cecily has built an entire imaginary romance in her diary with a man named Ernest, even going as far as to pretend to be engaged to him. 

• Obsessive nature:

  Her obsession with the name is highlighted by her immediate attraction to Algernon when she discovers he is "Ernest" in disguise.