posted 14th September 2026
An Ideal Husband
About the play
With themes of political ambition, blackmail, the price of respectability, potential moral compromise, and the acknowledgement of human frailty, Oscar Wilde’s An Ideal Husband is as relevant today as it was at the end of the 19th Century when it was first performed.
Sir Robert Chiltern, a highly respectable politician has a secret from his past, which in the hands of the unscrupulous Mrs Cheveley, newly returned to Society, threatens him with political and financial ruin and the loss of his marriage to his beloved Gertrude. Can his dear friend Lord Goring, who knows Mrs Cheveley of old, prevent disaster, or will he be too distracted by the emotional machinations of Sir Robert’s sister, Mabel?
This is a compelling tale told with Wilde’s characteristic wit and pertinent observations on Society and the human spirit.
The Characters
• Sir Robert Chiltern — A successful and respected politician whose reputation is endangered by a secret act of dishonesty from his past.
• Lady Gertrude Chiltern — Sir Robert’s morally idealistic wife, who believes strongly in honour and integrity.
• Lord Goring — A witty, fashionable bachelor and Sir Robert’s close friend; he is clever, compassionate, and helps resolve the play’s crisis.
• Mrs Cheveley — A manipulative and glamorous woman who blackmails Sir Robert for political advantage.
• Mabel Chiltern — Sir Robert’s lively younger sister, known for her humour and independence; she becomes romantically linked with Lord Goring.
• Lord Caversham — Lord Goring’s father, who disapproves and despairs of his son’s idle lifestyle. He is practical and outspoken.
• Lady Markby – A talkative and conservative society woman who provides comic commentary on Victorian marriage and social conventions. She often voices traditional views and helps satirise upper-class society.
• Vicomte de Nanjac – A French attaché. His presence adds to the cosmopolitan atmosphere of London high society. (Act 1 only)
• Mr Montford – A member of fashionable society who helps create the backdrop of political and social networking. (Act 1 only)
• Lady Basildon – A witty aristocratic woman who, together with Mrs Marchmont, provides humorous observations about marriage, boredom, and fashionable life. (Act 1 only).
• Mrs Marchmont – A friend of Lady Basildon. She engages in clever, cynical dialogue about society and matrimony. (Act 1 only).
• Mason – Sir Robert Chiltern’s efficient servant. He is a reassuring presence. He helps facilitate key meetings and contributes to the smooth progression of the plot.
• Phipps – Lord Goring’s highly admired butler. The model servant: discreet, professional, and unflappable. (Act 3 only)
