THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST CHARACTER STUDY LADY BRACKNELL Manner of Speech Lady Bracknell’s untiring set of rules and standards and her overuse of “should” and “must” are characteristic of the voice of English authority. Her dialogue and aggressive, masculine control (“You can take a seat, Mr. Worthing”) are unbelievable, and therefore comical and hilarious. Although Lady Bracknell’s haughty tone, pace, and manner in offering advice to Gwendolyn and Jack about how, whom, and when to marry seem normal, her “monster-like” description and queries about money and property seem masculine. The style of her language is familiar but her words are unexpected: Jack should know “nothing”; his occupation should be “smoking”; an engagement should be a “surprise.” Lady Bracknell is a socio-conscious person, who believes that money and position in society reflects goodness of person and success.
These beliefs are reflected in her manner of speech. “I do not approve of anything that tampers with natural ignorance. Ignorance is like a delicate exotic fruit; touch it and the bloom is gone. The whole theory of modern education is radically unsound. Fortunately in England, at any rate, education produces no effect whatsoever. If it did, it would prove a serious danger to the upper classes, and probably lead to acts of violence in Grosvenor Square.”The chin a little higher, dear.
The Term Paper on Lady Bracknell Society Gender Expectations
... Lady Bracknell is emphasised by her portrayal as a father figure not to mention her domineering and imposing manner. ... untrue when the following exchange reveals Lady Bracknell's interests as anything but 'affectionate'. Lady Bracknell is characterised and remembered more by ... in particular situations, for example the interview between Lady Bracknell and Jack over his eligibility to marry Gwendolyn. ...
Style largely depends on the way the chin is worn. They are worn very high, just at present.”London society is full of women of the very highest birth who have, of their own free choice, remained thirty-five for years.”A moment, Mr Worthing. A hundred and thirty thousand pounds! And in the funds! Miss Car dew seems to me a most attractive young lady, now that I look at her.”.
