Oscar Wilde Quotes - 125 quotes

Oscar Wilde (1854-1900) was an Irish poet and playwright, known for his sharp humor and flamboyant style. He was born in Dublin, Ireland. Wilde was the son of Sir William Wilde, a renowned surgeon, and Jane Wilde, a poet and nationalist. He studied at Trinity College, Dublin, and later at Magdalen College, Oxford, where he became known for his involvement in the Aesthetic movement, which promoted "art for art's sake". Wilde's literary career included a variety of works, but he is best remembered for his novel "The Picture of Dorian Gray" (1891) and his comedic plays such as "Lady Windermere's Fan" (1892), "An Ideal Husband" (1895), and "The Importance of Being Earnest" (1895). His works often critiqued Victorian society and showcased his talent for witty dialogue. In 1895, Wilde's career was marred by scandal when he was tried and imprisoned for "gross indecency" due to his homosexual relationships, which were illegal at the time. He spent two years in prison, during which he wrote "De Profundis", a long letter reflecting on his life and experiences. After his release, Wilde lived in France under the name Sebastian Melmoth and wrote "The Ballad of Reading Gaol" (1898), a poem about the harsh realities of prison life. Wilde died in Paris on November 30, 1900, at the age of 46. His works continue to be celebrated for their wit, charm, and insight into human nature.