Wilde's "trivial play for serious people" is a sparkling comedy of
manners. This hilariously absurd satire pits sincerity against style,
barbed witticisms against ostentatious elegance. Wilde's brilliantly
constructed plot and famous dialogue enrich the appeal of his
celebrated characters, as he turns accepted ideas inside out and
situations upside down in this, his masterpiece.

The Student Edition offers a plot summary, full commentary, character
notes and questions for study, besides a chronology and bibliography.