Jack Worthing has two identities; he is Jack in the country, and masquerades as his own fictional brother, Ernest, while he is in London. His best friend, Algernon, has a similar deception; a fictional friend named Bunbury who is a constant invalid, requiring Algy to visit him whenever Algy wants an excuse to miss his Aunt Augusta's boring dinner parties. The two gentlemen find themselves in difficulties when their sweethearts find out the truth about their deceptions.

This play is deliciously witty and hilarious, with a charming style and silly dialogue. The characters are frivolous, and the plot is delightfully ridiculous. I have read it twice now, and seen a few of the movies several times, and it never gets old! I always laugh and chuckle and giggle my way through each act.