Oscar Wilde's treatment of high society and good manners is explored in the play "The Importance of Being Earnest." Here, members of the upper class display much pride and pretense, believing that they are inherently entitled to their wealth and superior social position. An example is Lady Bracknell, who is concerned with maintaining the status quo and quickly squashes any signs of rebellion. Characters from upper societies/classes are primarily concerned with their reputation and respectability. Thus, upper-class expectations for both men and women include being of integrity, wealth, and from a wealthy family. Wilde's critiques of high society and good manners are explored through the characteristics of Lady Bracknell; the dialogue between Gwendolen and Cecily; and Jack's characteristics in the country. Wilde's critiques of high society and good manners are manifested by creating absurd situations and characters whose lack of insight causes them to react inappropriately. An example is shown in Lady Bracknell's concern for her own parties and the fact that lack of sympathy for the invalids causes her to react to the news of Bunbury's illness in an exaggeratedly cold manner. “I think it’s high time Mr. Bunbury decided whether he’s going to live or die. I would be much obliged if you would ask Mr. Bunbury, for my part, to be so kind as not to relapse on Saturday, as I am counting on you to arrange my music for me.” This quote indicates to the audience that Lady Bracknell is more concerned with the relevance of her musical arrangements to Bunbury's life and death struggles. As mentioned previously, Lady Bracknell displays much pride and pretension through her sense of entitlement and by...... middle of paper ...... retaining her social class, and only caring about wealth and style over time. the life and death of others. The art of good manners and social discussions are expressed through the dialogue between Gwendolen and Cecily. Although both women were hateful, it was done in a civilized manner. Wilde shows this by creating a stylized and artificial atmosphere by making the dialogue repetitive and parallel, thus making their dialogue and comments on trivial matters part of polite conversation. Jack also shows the importance of high society and good manners by showing that he has a high sense of duty and responsibility in the country; and be serious about Cecily's education because it can help her improve her current position as well as his own. Thus, Wilde's criticisms of high society and morals are expressed through the characters and their dialogues..