About The Importance of Being Earnest

Title: The Importance of Being Earnest

Author: Oscar Wilde

Publisher: Penguin Classics (Revised edition)

Publication Date: May 25, 2000

Page Count: 464 pages

Language: English (original language)

Genre: Comedy, Drama

Themes: Victorian social norms, love, marriage, class system

Awards: Widely acclaimed; no specific edition awards attributed.

Goodreads Rating: 4.17 (based on over 400,000 ratings)

Target Audience: Students and educators in literature classes focusing on classic English plays; fans of Oscar Wilde's works seeking to explore his wit and social commentary; readers who appreciate witty, humorous plays with a satirical edge toward Victorian society; those interested in the historical context of late 19th-century British theater and social norms.

Differentiators:

This edition is published by Penguin Classics, offering a revised version with updated text and scholarly annotations, making it an ideal resource for academic study. The work is renowned for its iconic status among Wilde's plays, frequently adapted for stage and screen, demonstrating its enduring popularity. It is a staple in literature courses focusing on classic English plays.

Why Choose This Edition?

Penguin Classics is a trusted name in scholarly publishing, ensuring the text's accuracy and providing valuable context through annotations. This edition is perfect for both casual readers looking to enjoy Wilde's classic wit and students needing a reliable version for academic purposes.