Lady Windermere's Fan

Lady Windermere's Fan is a comedy of manners by Oscar Wilde, first performed in 1892.

Set in glittering London society, the plot turns on whispered rumors of marital betrayal and a mysterious woman whose sudden arrival unsettles the social order. A delicately embroidered fan becomes the spark for misunderstandings, exposing the perilous power of reputation and gossip.

As secrets collide, an unexpected act of self-sacrifice tests the limits of propriety and challenges simple notions of right and wrong. Wilde contrasts appearance versus reality, suggesting that empathy can be wiser than rigid respectability.

With epigrams that dazzle and scenes that cut to the quick, the play skewers moral hypocrisy and double standards while defending the possibility of mercy over judgment. The result is a sparkling social satire that still feels disarmingly modern.

"SCENE
Morning-room of Lord Windermere’s house in Carlton House Terrace. Doors C. and R. Bureau with books and papers R. Sofa with small tea-table L. Window opening on to terrace L. Table R.
[Lady Windermere is at table R., arranging roses in a blue bowl.]
[Enter Parker.]
Parker. Is your ladyship at home this afternoon?
Lady Windermere. Yes—who has called?
Parker. Lord Darlington, my lady.
Lady Windermere. [Hesitates for a moment.] Show him up—and I’m at home to any one who calls.
Parker. Yes, my lady."