During a Victorian high society party, Gerald Arbuthnot is offered a coveted position with Lord Illingworth, a charismatic nobleman. But when Gerald introduces his mother, Mrs. Arbuthnot, to Lord Illingworth, she refuses to give her permission for him to accept the position. Gerald is confused, but Mrs. Arbuthnot is determined to keep her reasons a secret.

A Woman of No Importance explores themes of marriage and morality, and satirizes the hypocrisy of Victorian society. It premiered in London in 1893, and is Oscar Wilde’s second drawing-room play, following his successful Lady Windermere’s Fan.