A Woman of No Importance

A Woman of No Importance Summary

A Woman of No Importance is a play by Oscar Wilde that premiered in 1893. It satirizes the English upper-class society, exposing its moral hypocrisies and gender inequalities. The plot revolves around Gerald Arbuthnot, who is offered a prestigious position by Lord Illingworth, only to discover that Illingworth is his estranged father. The play delves into themes of social status, the role of women, and the consequences of past actions.

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A Woman of No Importance Excerpt

Short Summary: At a house party hosted by Lady Hunstanton, Gerald Arbuthnot is offered a job as Lord Illingworth’s secretary. However, Gerald’s mother reveals Illingworth is his estranged father. Themes of hypocrisy, gender roles, and morality unfold in this classic play.

Excerpt:

LADY HUNSTANTON. My dear, you are so charming tonight. Do you think Miss Worsley is enjoying herself?

MRS. ALLONBY. I think she is feeling very out of place amongst us. She has a disdain for English society. How amusing!

LORD ILLINGWORTH. [Turning to Gerald Arbuthnot.] I’m glad to have you in my service, Arbuthnot. You seem to have a natural aptitude for the diplomatic world.

GERALD. Thank you, Lord Illingworth. It’s a privilege.

MRS. ARBUTHNOT. [Entering suddenly.] Gerald, I must speak with you! [Turning coldly to Lord Illingworth.] And you, sir. I have something important to say.

LORD ILLINGWORTH. Mrs. Arbuthnot, you seem rather distressed. Is something wrong?

MRS. ARBUTHNOT. Gerald, do you know who this man is? He is not fit to be your employer. He—

GERALD. Mother, what are you saying? Lord Illingworth has been nothing but kind!

MRS. ARBUTHNOT. Kind? Gerald, this man is your father!

[Stunned silence. Lord Illingworth stands immobile as Gerald turns to him in shock. Mrs. Arbuthnot clasps her son’s arm tightly, as the room grows tense with unspoken truths.]