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What shocks Lady Bracknell about Jack’s origins?

AHe was adopted

BHe was found in a handbag at a train station

CHe has no money

DHe is Algernon’s brother

Answer:

B. He was found in a handbag at a train station

Read Explanation:

Lady Bracknell is shocked to discover that Jack is actually her sister's child, making him Algernon's older brother, essentially revealing that Jack is of a high social standing and not the mysterious, unknown background she initially assumed based on his story of being found as a baby in a handbag at a railway station. 

  • Social standing:

    Lady Bracknell is concerned with maintaining social propriety, so the revelation that Jack is from a well-established family is completely unexpected and removes a major obstacle to his marriage with Gwendolen.

  • Unveiling the truth:

    The fact that Jack's true identity is tied to her own family, particularly her sister, is the source of the biggest shock.

  • Irony of the situation:

    This twist highlights the absurdity of the play, as Lady Bracknell, who is so focused on appearances and social status, is ultimately connected to Jack through a secret family scandal. 


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