Oscar Wilde on Trial: The Criminal Proceedings, from Arrest to Imprisonment

The trials of Oscar Wilde for "gross indecency" were a pivotal event in legal and cultural history, leading to a new intolerance toward homosexuality and an association between gay men and the arts. This book provides the most accurate and authoritative account of the events.

Format: Hardback
Length: 672 pages
Publication date: 24 January 2023
Publisher: Yale University Press

The trials of Oscar Wilde, a renowned literary figure, for committing acts of "gross indecency" stand as one of the most infamous prosecutions in history. These trials, which took place at the height of Wilde's fame, resulted in his conviction and two-year imprisonment. Upon his release, Wilde faced financial ruin and died in a cheap hotel room in Paris, a few years later. The trials not only marked a significant setback for Wilde's career but also sparked a new intolerance towards homosexuality. Previously viewed as innocent habits of male bonding, they were now perceived as a threat to society. This association between gay men and the arts grew in the public mind, leading to a marginalization of LGBTQ+ individuals in both artistic and cultural circles.

To provide the most accurate and authoritative account of these pivotal events, Oscar Wilde on Trial assembles accounts from a diverse range of sources. These include official and private letters, newspaper accounts, and previously published (but incomplete) transcripts. The book is meticulously researched and compiled by a team of experts, ensuring that it presents a comprehensive and detailed perspective on the trials.

The trials of Oscar Wilde were not only a legal affair but also a cultural one. They raised important questions about the boundaries between art and morality, freedom of expression, and the role of sexuality in society. Wilde's case highlighted the vulnerability of artists and intellectuals to persecution and the need for legal protections against discrimination.

Through the lens of Oscar Wilde on Trial, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of legal and cultural history, and the enduring impact of events that shaped the world we live in today. The book serves as a reminder of the importance of freedom of speech, the power of art to challenge societal norms, and the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and equality.

Weight: 1010g
Dimension: 164 x 244 x 46 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300222722