An Ideal Husband and The Well-Made Play

Summary

In this lecture, a Victorian literature professor explores Oscar Wilde's play 'An Ideal Husband' within the framework of the well-made play, a conservative theatrical structure popular in the 19th century. The professor outlines the four-part structure of exposition, complication, crisis, and resolution, highlighting how Wilde cleverly employs these elements to create tension and intrigue. While the play appears to reinforce social norms by restoring order, it also suggests a progressive shift in the characters' understanding of morality and relationships. Ultimately, the discussion raises questions about the balance between tradition and progress in Wilde's work.

Takeaways

• 🎭 The lecture discusses Oscar Wilde's *An Ideal Husband* and its adherence to the structure of the well-made play.
• 📜 The well-made play features a four-part structure: exposition, complication, crisis, and resolution.
• 🔍 Wilde's play is often viewed as a social comedy but also critiques the conservative nature of the well-made play format.
• 🕰️ Audiences in the 19th century often attended performances primarily to see the crisis scene, highlighting the predictability of well-made plays.
• 👥 The well-made play relies on stock characters, with the 'reasoner' often restoring social order by the end.
• ⚖️ The primary goal of the well-made play is to reaffirm the social status quo, making it a reactionary form of theater.
• 🔄 Despite following the well-made play structure, Wilde introduces character evolution, particularly in Lady Chiltern.
• 💔 Lady Chiltern transitions from a fixed moral viewpoint to a more nuanced understanding of good and evil by the play's end.
• 🤔 The lecture raises questions about whether *An Ideal Husband* is ultimately conservative or progressive in its message.
• 🧩 Wilde's use of the well-made play format allows him to explore deeper philosophical themes while maintaining an engaging plot.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the talk given by the professor?

The talk focuses on Oscar Wilde's 'An Ideal Husband' and its structure as a well-made play.

How does the professor describe the well-made play?

The well-made play is characterized as a conservative, formulaic form of drama with a four-part structure: exposition, complication, crisis, and resolution.

Who is the primary exponent of the well-made play in Wilde's time?

The primary exponent was Victorien Sardou, who was influential in France and referred to as 'Sardoodledum' by George Bernard Shaw.

What is the significance of the well-made play's structure in 19th-century theatre?

The structure ensures that the plot is driven and predictable, allowing audiences to anticipate key moments like the crisis scene.

What role do stock characters play in the well-made play?

Stock characters help restore the social order threatened during the play, with one key character often being the 'reasoner' who resolves the conflict.

Why does George Bernard Shaw reject the well-made play as a legitimate form?

Shaw considered it reactionary and conservative, as it typically reinforces the social status quo without promoting progress or change.

What are the philosophical themes introduced in 'An Ideal Husband'?

Key themes include the complexity of good and evil and the importance of personal relationships, particularly concerning morality and social order.

What event triggers the complication in 'An Ideal Husband'?

The complication is triggered when Mrs. Cheveley arrives at the Chilterns' house to search for a lost diamond brooch.

How does Wilde use the setting and plot to enhance the drama in the play?

Wilde creates a mini farce with a box set, where characters overhear conversations and secrets are revealed, increasing the tension and drama.

In what ways does Lady Chiltern's character evolve throughout the play?

Lady Chiltern evolves from a fixed view of morality to a more nuanced understanding of her husband and their marriage, indicating a shift in her perspective.