Question

What was Miss Prism’s past mistake?

• A. She lost an important document
• B. She accidentally left a baby in a handbag at Victoria Station
• C. She stole money
• D. She lied about her name

Answer 1

Answer:

B. She accidentally left a baby in a handbag at Victoria Station

In "The Importance of Being Earnest," Miss Prism's past mistake was that she accidentally left a baby (who later turns out to be Jack) in a handbag at a railway station, mistaking it for the manuscript of her novel that she was writing at the time; essentially, she misplaced a baby while preoccupied with her writing. 

• The reason for the mistake:

  She was so focused on her novel that she confused the baby with her manuscript. 

• The significance of the mistake:

  This revelation unveils a humorous irony as Miss Prism, who is often seen as a strict and moralistic character, is revealed to have made a significant error in the past. 

• The impact on the plot:

  This revelation leads to the discovery of Jack's true identity and his connection to the upper class.