The Importance of Being Earnest · Character
Miss Prism
Cecily's earnest governess, a thwarted novelist who lectures on morality while nursing a mysterious past and a quiet fondness for Dr. Chasuble.
supporting
Also known as Miss Prism, Egeria
First appearance: act ii
As a supporting figure in The Importance of Being Earnest, Miss Prism is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.
Free preview opens at this moment — character cards, Character Web, and themes sit beside the text as you read.
Miss Prism runs the Manor House schoolroom with moral maxims and a three-volume novel she once wrote, urging Cecily toward German grammar and away from frivolous romance. She disapproves of Ernest's debts and…
Continue beside the text
The fuller portrait of Miss Prism sits in Reading Lens — open the free preview to keep reading with notes on the page.
See Miss Prism in act iiCharacter Web
6 connectionsA slice of how Miss Prism sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.
Relationship types
- Professional
- Social
- Other
Character groups
- Main characters and foils
- Protagonist
+1 more in the full Character Web
Open in readerNarrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Breaking point
This scene is the dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where the heroines, Gw…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingRelationships
- Cecily Cardew
professional · positive
Miss Prism is Cecily's governess, tasked with her education and moral guidance. How this plays out →
- Lady Bracknell
social · negative
Relationship notes
How these ties play out is in the reading companion — open the free preview.
See Miss Prism in act ii