A Woman of No Importance

Content Warning: This section of the guide contains discussion of gender discrimination.



Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. Oscar Wilde titled this work A Woman of No Importance but concludes with Mrs. Arbuthnot calling Lord Illingworth “a man of no importance” (182). How did this reversal affect your overall impression of the play and its message about gender and power in Victorian society?

2. How do the wit and social commentary in A Woman of No Importance compare to Wilde’s other drawing room comedies, such as The Importance of Being Earnest? Did you find one more effective or resonant than the other? If you have not read Wilde’s other works, are you interested in doing so?

3. The play blends witty dialogue with melodramatic elements to address serious moral issues. Did you find this combination effective in conveying Wilde’s critique of Victorian society? Which aspects of the play engaged you most?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Mrs. Arbuthnot faces harsh social consequences for her relationship with Lord Illingworth, while his reputation remains intact.