Criticism is Itself an Art

Oscar Wilde describes his thoughts on critics and critiques through his argument as Gilbert. Wilde states most importantly that, “Criticism is itself an art (904).” Wilde also discusses the importance of realizing that “there is no fine are without self-consciousness (899),” and that everyone must come into their individuality to provide criticism.

Wilde chooses this method of presenting his argument because it allows him a creative way to discuss the critic as artist. Also, this method makes it easier for him to address the issues that others find with his theory. Ernest is the voice of all those that seem to oppose Gilbert/Wilde’s way of thinking.

As an art student part of me does agree with Wilde, in that to be a critic one must also be able to understand the work and passion that goes into a piece of art. Another part of me realizes that it is difficult to critique others, but those that choose to critique usually take it upon themselves to understand the background information and form a well-rounded opinion.