THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST CHARACTERS John “Jack” Worthing, J.P., aka Ernest, 20's/30’s Wealthy young gentleman who takes life seriously. A friend of Algernon whose behavior he sometimes deplores. John is Cecily’s guardian and in love with Gwendolen. Algernon Moncrieff, 20's/30’s Brilliantly witty and blithely selfish nephew of Lady Bracknell and cousin to Gwendolen. Ernest’s...