Oscar Wilde: The Wilde-ly Humorous Writer

Oscar Wilde is a renowned writer from the 19th century who was known for his witticisms and his ability to charm the high society of London. Born in Dublin, Ireland on October 16th, 1854, Wilde was a true character who left a lasting impression on the world of literature.

Early Life

Wilde was the son of Sir William Wilde, a renowned surgeon, and Jane Wilde, a poet and feminist. From a young age, Wilde had an interest in literature and was an avid reader. He attended the Trinity College in Dublin and later went on to study at the Magdalen College in Oxford.

Literary Career

Wilde’s literary career took off in the 1880s when he started writing for magazines and newspapers. His first collection of poems, Poems, was published in 1881 and was well-received. However, it was his play, Lady Windermere’s Fan, that solidified his fame as a writer in the Victorian era.

Throughout his career, Wilde wrote plays such as The Importance of Being Earnest and An Ideal Husband, which were praised for their clever dialogues and social critiques. He was also known for his novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, which depicted the hedonistic lifestyle of the upper-class society in London.

Personal Life

Despite his success as a writer, Wilde’s personal life was tumultuous. He was married to Constance Lloyd and had two children, but he was also known for his homosexuality, which was illegal at the time. In 1895, Wilde was convicted of “gross indecency” and was sentenced to two years’ hard labor. This event changed the course of his life and career, and he died in poverty in 1900.

Legacy

Today, Wilde is remembered as one of the great literary figures of the 19th century, known for his humor, wit, and extravagant lifestyle. He left behind a legacy of works that are still read and studied today. In fact, his quotes and witticisms have become so famous that they are often misattributed to other people. As Wilde himself said, “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery that mediocrity can pay to greatness.”