Question

What does Ernest/Jack tell Algernon he intends to do during his visit to London?

• A. Propose to Gwendolen
• B. Visit Buckingham Palace
• C. Visit Big Ben
• D. Buy a new suit

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Propose to Gwendolen

• In the opening scene of The Importance of Being Earnest, Jack (who goes by "Ernest" in London) tells Algernon that he has come to the city to propose to Gwendolen.

• Jack is deeply in love with Gwendolen Fairfax, Algernon’s cousin, and he intends to ask for her hand in marriage. However, Algernon quickly complicates Jack’s plans by revealing that he has found Jack’s cigarette case, which has an inscription from "Cecily" to her "Uncle Jack"—exposing the fact that "Ernest" is not his real name.

• This forces Jack to confess his double life: he is known as "Ernest" in London, where he enjoys freedom and an exciting social life, but in the country, he is "Jack", a responsible guardian to his young ward, Cecily.

• Algernon, amused by Jack’s deception, then introduces the idea of "Bunburying"—living a double life to escape social obligations—setting the stage for the comedic misunderstandings that drive the play.