How we cite our quotes: (Act.Line) Every time a character talks counts as one line, even if what they say turns into a long monologue.
Quote #10
Jack: Then I was christened! That is settled. Now, what name was I given? Let me know the worst.
Lady Bracknell: Being the eldest son you were naturally christened after your father. (III.162-163)
In the Victorian era, it was appropriate for the eldest son of a family to be named after his father. This shows how important bloodlines are. By keeping his father’s first and last name, a son ensured the survival and continuation of his family name. Keep in mind that the family name is the only claim that a son has to all the wealth and rights of the aristocracy.