Wilde’s Words

Worksheet Description

This worksheet is centered around the epitaph of the celebrated writer Oscar Wilde, presenting students with the actual words inscribed on his tombstone. It begins by defining an epitaph and then moves to the specific example of Wilde’s choice, thereby grounding the students in both the concept and a real-world application. Students are tasked with sourcing the lines of Wilde’s epitaph and reflecting on his reasons for selecting them. The exercise not only familiarizes students with the epitaph as a form but also invites them to ponder the deeper meanings behind a writer’s selection of their final written legacy.

The worksheet educates students on the historical practice of individuals composing their own epitaphs, particularly noted writers. It teaches them how to research literary origins, in this case, the source of Oscar Wilde’s epitaph. The activity also encourages students to engage in literary analysis by interpreting the significance of Wilde’s words and considering how an epitaph can reflect an individual’s identity or philosophy. By pondering the personal selection of such words, students learn to appreciate the power of language in capturing the essence of a life.