Question

What is written on the cigarette case?

• A. "To my dear friend Jack"
• B. "From little Cecily to her dear Uncle Jack"
• C. "Ernest, with love"
• D. "From Lady Bracknell to Algernon"

Answer 1

Answer:

B. "From little Cecily to her dear Uncle Jack"

In "The Importance of Being Earnest," the inscription on Jack's cigarette case reads "From little Cecily, with her fondest love to her dear Uncle Jack," which reveals his secret identity as "Ernest" in the city, as Cecily is a fictional character from his country life where he goes by the name "Jack.". 

• Symbol of double life:

  The inscription exposes Jack's dual identity, highlighting the central theme of deception and fabricated personas in the play. 

• Plot device:

  Algernon uses the inscription to force Jack to reveal his true identity and the story behind his "Ernest" persona. 

• Significance of "Cecily":

  "Cecily" is the name of the young woman Jack is pretending to be a guardian to in the countryside.