The Importance of Being Earnest Lesson Plan

Like Algernon, Jack lives the double life of a "confirmed Bunburyist," but Jack and Algernon's reasons for and methods of Bunburying vary. Discuss each character's reasons for and approach to Bunburying.

Jack leads a double life so that he might enjoy the pleasures of a hedonistic city life without bringing shame upon his ward, Cecily. He "Bunburys" by maintaining a fictional brother, Ernest, who is frequently in need of his assistance, allowing him to escape to the city at any time, claiming that Ernest requires him. Algernon leads a double life so that he always has an excuse to escape any tedious social engagement, though a reader might assume that his Bunburying also...