Browse Acting Monologues & Scenes

Salomé

by Oscar Wilde

Salomé expresses an obsessive and poetic infatuation with the imprisoned prophet Jokanaan, praising his physical beauty in vivid, sensory detail. Jokanaan fiercely rejects her advances, condemning her as a symbol of corruption and evil. The scene escalates as Salomé's praise turns to insults before she fixates on her ultimate desire to kiss his mouth.

The Importance of Being Earnest

by Oscar Wilde

A character grapples with a significant internal conflict or external pressure, attempting to articulate their deepest fears or desires. The scene explores the emotional weight of their current situation and the stakes of their next decision.

The Importance of Being Earnest

by Oscar Wilde

Algernon interrogates Jack about a misplaced cigarette case, exposing Jack's double life and the discrepancy between his city and country identities. The scene centers on Algernon's playful but relentless pursuit of the truth and Jack's increasingly desperate attempts to maintain his facade. It establishes the central theme of 'Bunburying' and the comedic stakes of social deception.

The Importance of Being Earnest

by Oscar Wilde

Cecily reveals her romantic obsession with the name Ernest, forcing Algernon into a comedic panic as he realizes he must change his name to maintain her affection. The scene highlights the absurd Victorian social conventions regarding marriage, identity, and the superficiality of romance.

The Importance of Being Earnest

by Oscar Wilde

Two friends engage in a heated yet absurd argument over muffins while their romantic lives crumble around them. Jack is outraged by Algernon's deception and gluttony, while Algernon uses triviality and food as a defense mechanism against the gravity of their social ruin.

The Picture of Dorian Gray

by Oscar Wilde

Basil Hallward confesses to Lord Henry Wotton the profound and terrifying influence Dorian Gray has over his art and soul, explaining why he refuses to exhibit the portrait.

The Importance of Being Earnest

by Oscar Wilde

Algernon, posing as the fictional 'Ernest', attempts to woo Cecily in the garden. He is bewildered to discover that Cecily has already documented their entire romance and engagement in her diary long before they actually met.

The Importance of Being Earnest

by Oscar Wilde

Jack attempts to propose to Gwendolen, but finds himself hindered by her absurd obsession with the name 'Ernest'. The scene highlights the satirical stakes of social status and superficiality as Jack desperately tries to gauge if she would love him under his real name.

The Importance of Being Earnest

by Oscar Wilde

Lady Bracknell interrogates Jack Worthing about his family lineage, only to be horrified by the revelation that he was discovered as a baby in a handbag at Victoria Station.