Oscar Wilde, a prominent figure in the literary scene of the late 19th century, is known for his wit, satire, and criticism of social norms. While his works are often celebrated for their humor and social commentary, they also offer a critical lens through which to examine imperialism. In this essay we will delve into how Oscar Wilde portrays imperialism in his works, particularly in his novel “The Picture of Dorian Gray” and his play “The Importance of Being Earnest.” Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay One of the ways Wilde addresses imperialism is through the characters and settings of his works. In “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” the character Lord Henry Wotton embodies the colonial mentality of the British upper class during the late 19th century. Lord Henry's cynical worldview and belief in the superiority of the British Empire reflect the prevailing attitudes of the time. His influence on Dorian Gray, the protagonist, serves as a commentary on the corrupting influence of imperialism on the individual psyche. Similarly, in “The Importance of Being Earnest,” Wilde uses the character of Lady Bracknell to satirize the aristocratic class's sense of entitlement. and superiority. Lady Bracknell's contemptuous attitude towards the lower classes and her obsession with social status can be seen as a criticism of the imperialist mentality that permeated British society during Wilde's lifetime. Furthermore, Wilde's depiction of exoticism and orientalism in "The Picture of Dorian Gray" also shed light on the colonial attitudes of the time. The character of Sibyl Vane, an actress who captivates Dorian Gray with her exotic charm, represents the objectification and fetishization of non-Western cultures that was common in imperialist societies. Through Sibyl Vane, Wilde exposes the dehumanizing effects of imperialism on both the colonizers and the colonized. Another aspect of Wilde's critique of imperialism is his use of symbolism and allegory. In “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” the titular portrait serves as a metaphor for the hidden consequences of imperialism. The portrait, which ages and bears the scars of Dorian's moral corruption while remaining seemingly unharmed, represents the hidden costs of empire building and exploitation. Wilde's use of the supernatural element in the novel adds a layer of complexity to his critique, suggesting that the consequences of imperialism are not limited to the material world but also extend to the spiritual and moral realms. Furthermore, the motif of duality and deception in "The Importance of Being Earnest" can be interpreted as a commentary on the hypocrisy and double standards inherent in imperialist societies. The characters' adoption of false identities and their preoccupation with appearances reflect the superficiality and moral bankruptcy of the imperialist mentality. By exposing the absurdity of social conventions and the artificiality of the upper class, Wilde challenges the legitimacy of imperialist values ​​and power structures. Additionally, Wilde's life and experiences provide insight into his views on imperialism. As an Irish writer living in England, Wilde was keenly aware of the tensions and power dynamics between the British Empire and its colonies. His experiences of discrimination and marginalization as an Irishman in England likely influenced his criticism of imperialism in his works. By drawing attention to the injustices and inequalities perpetuated by imperialism, Wilde.