Oscar Wilde, The Critic as Artis Quotes

A collection of quotes by Oscar Wilde, The Critic as Artis.

Oscar Wilde, known as a literary genius and one of the most flamboyant personalities of the 19th century, was born on October 16, 1854, in Dublin, Ireland. He gained recognition for his wit, humor, and masterpiece plays, essays, and novels. Wilde was a central figure of the aesthetic movement, a philosophy that emphasized the importance of art for art's sake.

He was educated at Trinity College, Dublin, and later at Magdalen College, Oxford. During his time at university, Wilde became involved in the decadent and hedonistic social circles, which greatly influenced his artistic style and ideas. His plays, such as "The Importance of Being Earnest" and "Lady Windermere's Fan," displayed his sharp wit, satirical observations, and biting social commentary.

Besides his work as a playwright, Wilde was a prolific writer of essays, including the influential "The Critic as Artist." In this essay, he argued that the critic is an artist in their own right, as their interpretations and analyses contribute to the creation and understanding of art.

Wilde's personal life was tumultuous and scandal-ridden. His affair with Lord Alfred Douglas and subsequent trials for "gross indecency" led to his downfall. He was sentenced to two years of hard labor, which took a severe toll on his health and spirit.

Despite his tragic end, Oscar Wilde left an indelible mark on English literature and the cultural landscape of his time. His charming wit, unconventional lifestyle, and artistic contributions continue to captivate audiences and inspire creative minds to this day.