De Profundis

Wilde, an Irish native, was a late-Victorian writer and lover of knowledge and all things beautiful. He composed art in diverse forms, such as poetry, epigrams, and novels, eventually becoming the most influential playwright of his time. An intellectual, Wilde studied at Oxford and became enamored with the philosophy of aestheticism, which prizes art for its beauty rather than its social, political, or economic function; his work also has ties to the decadent movement, which exaggerated aestheticism’s sensuality in ways that were often intentionally fantastical or grotesque. Wilde became known for his flamboyant dress and charisma, quickly rising to fame in Europe. As his career progressed, so too did his philosophy, and Wilde began to experiment with including social issues into well-constructed aesthetic works. This evolution of thought led Wilde to engage with different genres, such as drama and comedy. Wilde’s most famous work includes his novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, and plays such as Salome and The Importance of Being Earnest.

Wilde is also infamous for his failed attempt at prosecuting the Marquess of Queensberry, Bosie’s father, for criminal libel. As evidenced in the letter “De Profundis,” Wilde did not want to get involved in his partner’s family affairs, but Bosie’s erratic behavior and his own lack of willpower ultimately led him to sue. Unfortunately, this trial would unearth evidence convicting Wilde of “gross indecency”—sexual relations between men other than sodomy. He was sentenced to two years hard labor in what was arguably the first celebrity court case. Wilde would remain in prison from 1895 to 1897. During his last year at Reading Gaol, he composed “De Profundis,” documenting his spiritual and philosophical journey while in prison. The letter addresses Bosie, their relationship, and, ultimately, Bosie’s hand in his complete ruin. Upon release, Wilde fled to France and composed his final work, The Ballad of Reading Gaol, a poem depicting his life in prison.