Oscar Wilde is widely considered to be one of the greatest writers of the 19th century. Born in Dublin, Ireland in 1854, Wilde was known for his wit, charm, and impeccable writing style. He was a prolific writer, producing plays, essays, and novels that are still revered today. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of Oscar Wilde books, exploring their themes, characters, and literary significance.
Oscar Wilde Books
| Title | Publication Year | Genre |
|---|---|---|
| The Picture of Dorian Gray | 1890 | Gothic novel |
| The Importance of Being Earnest | 1895 | Comedy play |
| Lady Windermere’s Fan | 1892 | Comedy play |
| An Ideal Husband | 1895 | Comedy play |
| The Ballad of Reading Gaol | 1898 | Poetry |
The Picture of Dorian Gray
The Picture of Dorian Gray is perhaps Wilde’s most famous work. It was first published in 1890 and caused quite a stir due to its controversial subject matter. The story follows a young man named Dorian Gray who becomes obsessed with his own beauty and youth. He makes a wish that his portrait will age instead of him, and as a result, he is able to indulge in all sorts of hedonistic pleasures without consequence.
The novel is a commentary on the corruption and decay of Victorian society, and its themes of vanity, morality, and temptation still resonate today. It is a masterful piece of Gothic literature and has been adapted into various films and stage productions.
The Importance of Being Earnest
The Importance of Being Earnest is a play that was first performed in 1895. It is a witty satire on Victorian society, poking fun at the upper class and their obsession with propriety and manners. The play follows the antics of two young men who adopt false identities in order to escape their responsibilities and pursue their romantic interests.
The play is famous for its clever wordplay and witty one-liners, and is considered to be one of the greatest comedies of all time. It has been adapted into numerous films and is still performed on stage today.
Lady Windermere’s Fan
Lady Windermere’s Fan is a play that was first performed in 1892. It tells the story of Lady Windermere, a young woman who discovers that her husband is having an affair with a scandalous woman named Mrs. Erlynne. Lady Windermere is torn between her love for her husband and her sense of morality, and must decide whether to forgive him or leave him.
The play explores themes of love, marriage, and societal expectations, and is notable for its complex female characters. It is also famous for its surprise ending, which shocked audiences at the time of its first performance.
Conclusion
Oscar Wilde was a master of literature, and his works continue to captivate readers and audiences to this day. The Picture of Dorian Gray, The Importance of Being Earnest, and Lady Windermere’s Fan are just a few examples of his incredible talent and read Oscar Wilde Books. His wit, humor, and social commentary make his works timeless classics that will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
