Oscar Wilde was born in Dublin, Ireland. At 20, he went to England to study at Oxford University. He was a humorous and gifted scholar and became a celebrity.

He first earned a living as an essayist, editor, art reviewer and lecturer, advocating art for art's sake. He later wrote fairy tales, a novel, and poetry. But he is best known for his plays. Most use witty high comedy to criticize the shallowness of affluent British society and its false propriety. His play, "The Importance of Being Earnest" is one of the best examples of Victorian comedy.

He married and had two sons. But at the peak of his career, he was convicted of homosexuality and was sent to prison for two years. His health and finances ruined, he died a few years later.