Oscar Wilde, The Decay of Living Quotes

A collection of quotes by Oscar Wilde, The Decay of Living.

Title: Oscar Wilde - The Decay of Living

Biography:
Oscar Wilde (1854-1900) was an Irish playwright, novelist, poet, and essayist, best known for his wit, flamboyant personality, and his exploration of societal norms and hypocrisies. The term "The Decay of Living" does not refer to Oscar Wilde but is the title of one of his notable plays, "The Decay of Lying."

Born on October 16, 1854, in Dublin, Ireland, Wilde exhibited an exceptional intellect from a young age. After attending Trinity College in Dublin and later Oxford University, he gained recognition for his poetry and wit. His early literary work depicted aestheticism and decadence, reflecting his belief in the pursuit of beauty and pleasure as intrinsic to life.

Wilde became a prominent figure in London society, captivating audiences with his charm and often controversial statements. Known for his dandy lifestyle and extravagant dress, he challenged the prevailing Victorian values and championed art for art's sake.

In addition to his iconic plays such as "The Importance of Being Earnest" and "Lady Windermere's Fan," Wilde's novel "The Picture of Dorian Gray" further explored themes of decadence and the double life. However, his career was abruptly cut short when he was convicted of "gross indecency" for his same-sex relationships, leading to his imprisonment from 1895 to 1897.

Oscar Wilde's legacy lies in his influential literary works and his brave defiance of societal norms. Through his unique writing style and controversial personal life, he left an indelible mark on the literary and cultural landscape of the late 19th century.