39 pages • 1 hour read
96
Play • Fiction
England • 1890s
1893
Adult
18+ years
A Woman of No Importance by Oscar Wilde is a play that scrutinizes the mores and restrictions of upper-class British society in the late 19th century. The story unfolds at Lady Hunstanton’s estate, where Gerald Arbuthnot is offered a prestigious position by Lord Illingworth. Tension arises when Gerald's mother, Mrs. Arbuthnot, unveils a shocking secret connecting her and Lord Illingworth. Themes of moral hypocrisy and gender inequality are explored as characters navigate issues of reputation, parentage, and societal judgment. This play includes adult themes and discussions of gender-based societal punishment.
Contemplative
Humorous
Emotional
Romantic
Bittersweet
15,705 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Oscar Wilde's A Woman of No Importance tackles societal hypocrisy and gender roles with sharp wit and compelling dialogue. Critics praise Wilde's incisive critique of Victorian society and his poignant, layered characters. However, some feel the play's moralizing can be heavy-handed, and its plot predictable. Overall, it remains a powerful, thought-provoking work.
A reader who enjoys A Woman of No Importance by Oscar Wilde likely appreciates witty dialogue, social satire, and complex characters. Fans of Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest or Shaw's Pygmalion may find this play appealing. These readers are often drawn to works critiquing Victorian society and exploring themes of gender and class.
15,705 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
96
Play • Fiction
England • 1890s
1893
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.