Question

What is the name of the fictional friend that Algernon Moncrieff invents to avoid boring social situations?

• A. Bloomberg
• B. Bunbury
• C. Ernest
• D. Willoughby

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Bunbury

The name of the fictional friend that Algernon Moncrieff invents to avoid boring social obligations is Bunbury.

Who is "Bunbury"?

• Algernon creates an imaginary invalid friend named "Mr. Bunbury," who supposedly lives in the country and frequently falls ill.

• Whenever Algernon wants to escape a dull dinner party or social event, he claims that he must go "Bunburying"—meaning he has to visit his sick friend.

• This allows him to live a double life, much like Jack does with his "Ernest" persona.

The Concept of "Bunburying"

• "Bunburying" becomes a term for leading a double life or avoiding social responsibilities through deception.

• Algernon even tells Jack:
  "You have invented a very useful younger brother called Ernest in order that you may be able to come up to town as often as you like. I have invented an invaluable permanent invalid called Bunbury in order that I may be able to go down into the country whenever I choose."

• This highlights Wilde’s satire on Victorian society, where people maintain appearances while secretly breaking social norms.