Paper Dolls by David Claudon

 

   

Wilde's most popular play, since its premiere in 1895, is The Importance of Being Earnest, a comedy of manners, called "a trivial comedy for serious people." The play's success was immediately squelched by the ensuing scandal of Wilde's trials--beginning with his libel suit against the Marquis of Queensberry. The play was withdrawn from production and banned for ten years.

One of the problems with the play was Earnest's double life and Algernon's imaginary invalid friend Bunbury who allows him to lead a double life also.

 

The men's costumes are based on examples found in the 1894

 
   

Algernon Moncrief falls in love with his friend Jack Worthing's ward, Cecily. She has written all about their impending engagement in her diary even though they have never met.

Algernon's suit is based on Lord Tweedmouth's picture found in the 1894 Vanity Fair.

At center is an alternative costume for Cecily.
   

At left is Gwendolen in Act I. Gwendolen is Algernon's cousin. She plans to marry Jack who has a country estate. When he is in the country he is Jack; when in the city, Earnest. At center she is wears her country costume for her visit to Jack's estate in the country.

Earnest's outfit is based on a plate from an 1896 Vanity Fair of DOUGLAS-SCOTT-MONTAGU The Hon. John Walter Edward. By Spy. 'A Southern Scott'. Educated Eton and New College Oxford. Toured the world. Director of several South African Companies.

 
   
"Chins are worn very high this year," states Lady Bracknell is Algernon's aunt and Gwendolen's mother. She thinks Jack is not a suitable catch for her daughter.
   
In Act 3, Lady Bracknell arrives to breakup Gwendolyn and Jack. She wears a light-weight travel costume. The shortcape is based on an example which was done with a crocheted collar, heavier fabric and crocheted lace. The hat is based on the same fashion plate.
   

 

 

Lady Bracknell. [Starting.] Miss Prism! Did I hear you mention a Miss Prism?

Chasuble. Yes, Lady Bracknell. I am on my way to join her.

Lady Bracknell. Pray allow me to detain you for a moment. This matter may prove to be one of vital importance to Lord Bracknell and myself. Is this Miss Prism a female of repellent aspect, remotely connected with education?

Chasuble. [Somewhat indignantly.] She is the most cultivated of ladies, and the very picture of respectability.

Lady Bracknell. It is obviously the same person. May I ask what position she holds in your household?

Chasuble. [Severely.] I am a celibate, madam.

Jack. [Interposing.] Miss Prism, Lady Bracknell, has been for the last three years Miss Cardew’s esteemed governess and valued companion.

Lady Bracknell. In spite of what I hear of her, I must see her at once. Let her be sent for.
   

Lane is Algernon's manservant. When asked if he had heard Algenon practicing on his piano, Lane replies, "I didn't think it polite to listen, sir." Lane's costume is the same for Merriman in Act 2-3.

Miss Prism is Cecily's governess and the apple of Dr. Chasuble's eye. She unknowingly is a key to the mystery of the play, as is the handbag. Her portrait is based on a period photograph.
     

 

To obtain these paper dolls in 300 dpi on heavy-weight paper, contact me.

This website created by David Claudon, September 19, 2006. Last update September 20, 2006 .

 

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