Monologue

Lady Markby Monologue from An Ideal Husband

From An Ideal Husband by Oscar Wilde

female · contemplative · 1:21 min

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Well, like all stout women, she looks the very picture of happiness, as no doubt you noticed. But there are many tragedies in her family, besides this affair of the curate. Her own sister, Mrs. Jekyll, had a most unhappy life; through no fault of her own, I am sorry to say. She ultimately was so broken-hearted that she went into a convent, or on to the operatic stage, I forget which. No; I think it was decorative art-needlework she took up. I know she had lost all sense of pleasure in life. (Rising.) And now, Gertrude, if you will allow me, I shall leave Mrs. Cheveley in your charge and call back for her in a quarter of an hour. Or perhaps, dear Mrs. Cheveley, you wouldn’t mind waiting in the carriage while I am with Lady Brancaster. As I intend it to be a visit of condolence, I shan’t stay long.

About this piece

Lady Markby reflects on the tragedies within her family while discussing the situation of Mrs. Cheveley, indicating a deeper sense of loss and resignation.

40s · sadness · family · loss · identity · suffering

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