Cover of An Ideal Husband

An Ideal Husband

by Oscar Wilde

⏱ 4 hours 🎓 High school+
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💡 Why It Matters Today

Oscar Wilde's 'An Ideal Husband' explores themes of morality, reputation, and the social masks people wear—topics still relevant as society debates personal privacy, political integrity, and social media image management.

Modern Connections

The play's examination of reputation ties into today's social media culture and online personas.The moral dilemmas faced by characters resonate with current debates on political corruption and integrity.

💭 Big Ideas

The dichotomy between appearance and reality

People often pretend to be better than they are; true honesty is rare and risky.

The importance of integrity over superficial virtue

Being truly honest is more valuable than just appearing good.

The social pressure to conform and hide secrets

Society expects us to play certain roles, even if it means hiding who we really are.

📖 What You'll Learn

🎯 Reader Fit

✅ Good For

  • Readers interested in classic literature and social commentary.
  • Those who enjoy witty plays and philosophical debates.
  • Individuals curious about Victorian society and its values.

⚠ Not Ideal For

  • Readers preferring fast-paced or modern thrillers.
  • Those uninterested in social or moral debates.

🤔 Controversies & Critiques

📚 Reading Context

Before Reading

  • Learn about Victorian England's social hierarchy and morals.

After Reading

  • Explore Wilde's other works and his views on society and art.

📕 Similar Books

Appeals to fans of: Wit and social critique in authors like Jonathan Swift or George Bernard Shaw.

🏷 Classification Details

Author Oscar Wilde
Published 1895
Language English
Subjects Comedy plays, London (England) -- Drama

📚 Curated Collections

This book appears in these curated collections:

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