John+Worthing

Brief Summary
Jack is one of the main characters in the play. He has invented a brother called Ernest (the pun of 'Earnest' is ironic, as Ernest is not at all being earnest) to disguise his actions and misdeamours. Jack is more of a romantic than Algernon. He believes in flirting and romance, as opposed to Algernon's very straightfoward and passionate style. He is in love with Gwendolen, but is prevented by Gwendolen's mother, Lady Bracknell

We can see from page 10 that Jack is quite a good liar.

Jack knows this and tries to protect Cecily from Algernon by lying that Cecily is his aunt.

Key Quotations and Interpretation
//**Algernon**. How are you, my dear Ernest? What brings you up to town?
 * Jack**. Oh, pleasure, pleasure! What else should bring one anywhere? Eating as usual, I see, Algy! (p.8) //

Jack's entry into the play confuses the audience. Algernon calls him 'Ernest' but the play specifically refers that the character is called 'Jack'. Jack also does not seem disturbed by Algernon calling him the wrong name.

Foreshadowing the deceit and confusion which will become a major theme throughout the play.

//**Jack**. [Pulling off his gloves.] When one is in town one amuses oneself. When one is in the country one amuses other people. It is excessively boring. (p.8) //

This entry shows why Jack prefers to stay in town and why he invented his brother Ernest Worthing

//**Algernon**. What shall we do after dinner? Go to the theatre? . ..
 * Jack**. Oh, no! I loathe listening!
 * Algernon**. Well, what shall we do then?
 * Jack**. Nothing! (p.24) //

Contrasts with the above statement; Jack prefers the city, calling the countryside boring. However, in the city he doesn't do anything himself. Suggests that he is lazy.