TEAS Reading Practice Test Related

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How does Wilde portray the institution of marriage in The Importance of Being Earnest?

  • A. As a romantic union between two individuals.
  • B. As a social contract designed for economic and social gain.
  • C. As a trivial and superficial agreement.
  • D. As a necessary evil in a structured society.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In The Importance of Being Earnest, Wilde portrays marriage as a social contract rather than a romantic union. The play satirizes the transactional nature of marriage in the society Wilde critiques. Characters like Lady Bracknell's interrogation of Jack highlight how marriage is viewed as a means for economic and social gain rather than genuine affection, emphasizing the societal norms of the time. Choice A is incorrect because Wilde's portrayal goes beyond a simple romantic view of marriage. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies Wilde's critique of marriage and societal norms. Choice D is incorrect as it doesn't capture the nuanced satire Wilde employs in dissecting the institution of marriage.