Short History Of... Oscar Wilde
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Nov 10, 2025 
Sos Eltis, a Professor of English and Theatre Studies at Oxford, dives into the vibrant life of Oscar Wilde, a literary giant and LGBTQ+ martyr. They discuss Wilde's diverse works, from playful comedies to poignant essays, illuminating how his Dublin upbringing and classic education shaped his unique voice. Eltis explores Wilde's celebrity status during his American tour, his philosophical stance on art, and the tumultuous relationship with Lord Alfred Douglas. The conversation highlights Wilde's legacy, enduring quotes, and the revival of his spirit through modern interpretations.
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Wilde's Garden Solace In Prison
- Oscar Wilde spent his prison days doing garden work to escape his cell and treasured a warder's notes and literary questions.
- He wrote under severe restrictions, often using one sheet of paper a day to continue his work from memory.
Privilege Fueled Wilde's Public Persona
- Wilde's privileged Dublin upbringing and parents' cultural salons shaped his intellectual confidence and taste for spectacle.
- His classical education and Oxford aestheticism gave him both technical skill and a deliberate public persona.
Art For Art's Sake And Everyday Beauty
- Aestheticism taught Wilde to value beauty and art for themselves, not for utility or market value.
- He also embraced the idea that everyday objects should be beautiful, linking art to ordinary life.
