Question

Read the passage from The Importance of Being Earnest.

Lady Bracknell. . . . [Turns to Jack.] Apprised, sir, of my daughter’s sudden flight by her trusty maid, whose confidence I purchased by means of a small coin, I followed her at once by a luggage train. Her unhappy father is, I am glad to say, under the impression that she is attending a more than usually lengthy lecture by the University Extension Scheme on the Influence of a permanent income on Thought. I do not propose to undeceive him. Indeed I have never undeceived him on any question. I would consider it wrong. But of course, you will clearly understand that all communication between yourself and my daughter must cease immediately from this moment.

How does Wilde poke fun at Victorian society in the passage? Check all that apply.

Lady Bracknell says her maid is trustworthy but has to bribe her to get help.
The names of the college and class seem reasonable to Gwendolen’s father.
Gwendolen’s father appears to be an unhappy man.
Lady Bracknell says it is wrong to be honest with her husband.
Lady Bracknell does not approve of Gwendolen dating Jack.

Answer 1

Lady Bracknell says her maid is trustworthy but has to bribe her to get help.

Lady Bracknell says it is wrong to be honest with her husband.

The names of the college and class seem reasonable to Gwendolen’s father.

Step-by-step explanation:

The three statements above are a representation of sharp critique of Victorian society present in the book 'The Importance of Being Earnest.'

The first statement reveals how deep the corruption of people runs where bribing a person who is considered trustworthy is standard practice.

The second statement says the truth about much coveted Victorian family values in which the Lady willfully is not honest with her husband.

The names of the college and Course are absurd to the point of utilitarian extremity of Victorian thought.