Victorian Values and Oscar Wilde
The 19th Century is known by historians as the Victorian era. Named after the noble Queen Victoria who reigned between June 20, 1837, and January 22, 1901, the Victorian era was notable for its strong morals and values. Oscar Wilde, on the other hand, certainly was not.
During the 19th century, social rules were both strict and followed intently by the majority of people. This was especially prevalent among the high class and upper middle class. Some defining Victorian values are related to sexual propriety, hard work, honesty, and the duty and responsibility for the lower class. These strong moral values lead to progressive outcomes like the abolishment of slavery, movements against injustice, and a strong opposition to greed. However, in the high classes, along with these virtues came an obsession with manners and etiquette. Their daily lives were often dictated by what was seen as socially acceptable. From their clothing to the way they entered a room, the intricacies of etiquette were tantamount to respect in society. For most of the high class, they were constantly on alert to avoid any action that could possibly be viewed as vulgar. Some of these rules developed to be rather specific. For example, if one forgets or refuses to greet someone at a party, it could result in social death. The rules placed on women were particularly harsh. Women were solely responsible for taking care of the house and children. It would be shameful for a woman to have a job after marriage. Moreover, if a woman was found alone with a man they would likely be shunned by society.
During this socially strict climate came Oscar Wilde and his book “The Picture of Dorian Gray”. Oscar Wilde was known to have homosexual relationships. Homosexuality was considered an indecent crime during the Victorian era. In the book “The Picture of Dorian Gray”, he explores the flaws in society, exposing the facade of the higher class. Moreover, the relationship between Dorian and Lord Henry was viewed as strongly immoral. This made Wilde a social outcast and a controversial figure. Unfortunately, Oscar Wilde’s neglect of social values and etiquette ultimately lead to his imprisonment.
During the 19th century, social rules were both strict and followed intently by the majority of people. This was especially prevalent among the high class and upper middle class. Some defining Victorian values are related to sexual propriety, hard work, honesty, and the duty and responsibility for the lower class. These strong moral values lead to progressive outcomes like the abolishment of slavery, movements against injustice, and a strong opposition to greed. However, in the high classes, along with these virtues came an obsession with manners and etiquette. Their daily lives were often dictated by what was seen as socially acceptable. From their clothing to the way they entered a room, the intricacies of etiquette were tantamount to respect in society. For most of the high class, they were constantly on alert to avoid any action that could possibly be viewed as vulgar. Some of these rules developed to be rather specific. For example, if one forgets or refuses to greet someone at a party, it could result in social death. The rules placed on women were particularly harsh. Women were solely responsible for taking care of the house and children. It would be shameful for a woman to have a job after marriage. Moreover, if a woman was found alone with a man they would likely be shunned by society.
During this socially strict climate came Oscar Wilde and his book “The Picture of Dorian Gray”. Oscar Wilde was known to have homosexual relationships. Homosexuality was considered an indecent crime during the Victorian era. In the book “The Picture of Dorian Gray”, he explores the flaws in society, exposing the facade of the higher class. Moreover, the relationship between Dorian and Lord Henry was viewed as strongly immoral. This made Wilde a social outcast and a controversial figure. Unfortunately, Oscar Wilde’s neglect of social values and etiquette ultimately lead to his imprisonment.
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