Don't be Earnest in The Importance of Being Earnest While some critics argue that The Importance of Being Earnest is completely fictional and has no relation to the real world, others argue that "The Importance of Being Earnest" is completely imaginative and bears no relation to the real world trivial comedy for serious people" makes significant comments on social class and the institution of marriage. These observations include the prevalent use of deception in everyday affairs. Indeed, the characters and plot of the play seem entirely irreverent, thus giving weight to the comical and imaginative aspect. However, this same factor also serves to illuminate the main points that Wilde tries to convey about English society in which he lived. Throughout the play, Wilde portrays each of the main characters in a way that reflects his view of English society. Algernon Moncrieff and Jack (Ernest) Worthington represent the prototypical male bachelor. In the opening act, set in Algernon's apartment, the two meet and display what appear to be their usual daily activities. Neither of them has a job, and it is clear that their only occupation is the pursuit of recreational activities and social issues, topics of great importance to them. When Algernon asks the purpose of Ernest's visit to the city, Ernest replies, "Oh my pleasure, my pleasure! What else should anyone take somewhere? Eating as usual, I see Algy!". Algeron and Ernest are characterized by their extravagance, a luxury accessible only thanks to the money accumulated from the family inheritance. Neither shows any notion of money appreciation. In fact, when Algern... in the center of the card... is born in the planning of Ernest's weddings to Gwendolyn and Algy to Cecily. These marriages are only made available because Jack (Ernest) discovers his true identity as a member of the Bracknell family. When this is established, Ernest can marry Gwendolyn and it seems that he will allow Cecily to marry Algernon. However, the identity Ernest discovers is the same one he has lied about throughout the entire play. Thus, relationships forged arbitrarily on deception and convenience are legitimized at the end of the game. Although Ernest states, "I have now realized for the first time in my life the vital importance of being serious," the statement is actually ironic because he was never serious at any time. In fact, the end is just the result of a random twist of fate.