Oscar Wilde

Oscar Wilde was an Irish writer and poet. He was born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1854. He was famous for his clever wit, his plays, and his novel The Picture of Dorian Gray. He is one of the most quoted writers in the English language.

Early Life

Wilde was the son of a famous surgeon and a poet. He was brilliant at school and won a scholarship to Oxford University. He became known for his sharp wit and flamboyant style. He moved to London and quickly became a celebrity.

Big Achievements

Wilde wrote the novel The Picture of Dorian Gray and the play The Importance of Being Earnest. He wrote fairy tales, poems, and essays. His plays are still performed around the world. He was known for his hilarious one-liners and observations about society.

Fun Facts

• Wilde once said, 'Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.'
• He traveled to America on a lecture tour and told customs he had nothing to declare except his genius.
• He wrote The Happy Prince and other fairy tales for his two sons.

Did You Know?

Wilde was sentenced to prison for two years in 1895. While in prison, he wrote a long letter called De Profundis. After his release, he moved to Paris, where he died at age 46.