The Importance of Being Earnest

Question

Act II, Second Half

Cecily says to Gwendolen, “Oh, flowers are as common here, Miss Fairfax, as people are in London.” How is this an insult? (Hint: Could common have a dual meaning?)

Answer 1

This statement can be seen as an insult because Cecily is implying that both flowers and people are common or ordinary in the countryside, just as they are in London. In this context, common could have a dual meaning of being both plentiful and lacking in uniqueness or distinction. By comparing Gwendolen to something as commonplace as flowers, Cecily is subtly criticizing Gwendolen's perceived superiority and trying to bring her down a notch.