The symbolism
that we find in 's The Importance of Being Earnest is mostly situated
around the items that constitute the different ways in which Jack and Algernon indulge in their
double lives. One of these symbols is food, as well as its extravagant and careless
consumption.
We find that both Algernon and Jack's alter ego, Ernest, have a
penchant for over-indulging at expensive restaurants only to leave the bills unpaid for.This
causes in Jack a sense of joy, as if being "bad" was a goal of his. This is
significant because Ernest (when in the country living as Jack) is a model of good manners and
responsibility, as he is in charge of the manor entailed to him by his adoptive father, and
because he is also in charge of Cecily, who is his ward.
Therefore, food is
a door to freedom for Jack and Algernon that shows extravagance at its best: Run bills, enjoy
your meals, and do not pay. That is the life of the true so-called rich in Victorian England: A
group of people that lead...
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