(1854 – 1900) Irish poet, playwright, and wit allied with the aesthetic movement. Known for his biting wit, flamboyant dress, and glittering conversation Wilde had become one of the most well-known personalities of his day. For Wilde, the purpose of art was to guide life, to do this it must concern itself only with the pursuit of beauty, disdaining morality. Public outrage over the trials arising from Wilde's homosexuality fueled English distrust of Art Nouveau as decadent and effeminate.
(1854 – 1900) Irish poet, playwright, and wit allied with the aesthetic movement. Known for his biting wit, flamboyant dress, and glittering conversation Wilde had become one of the most well-known personalities of his day. For Wilde, the purpose of art was to guide life, to do this it must concern itself only with the pursuit of beauty, disdaining morality. Public outrage over the trials arising from Wilde's homosexuality fueled English distrust of 
