Oscar Wilde's Milestones

Oscar Wilde was an Irish playwright, poet, and novelist, famed for his wit, works like The Picture of Dorian Gray, and his enduring influence on literature and LGBTQ+ history.

1854

Birth

Oscar Wilde was born in Dublin, Ireland, to Sir William Wilde and Jane Wilde.

Family October 16, 1854

1864

Early education

Attended Portora Royal School in Enniskillen, Ireland.

Education September 1, 1864 - June 30, 1871

1871

Education at Trinity College

Studied classics at Trinity College, Dublin, winning a scholarship.

Education October 1, 1871 - June 1, 1874

1874

Education at Oxford

Attended Magdalen College, Oxford, winning the Newdigate Prize for poetry.

Education October 1, 1874 - June 1, 1878

1878

Moved to London

Moved to London to begin his literary and social career.

Location October 1, 1878

1881

Published 'Poems'

Published his first collection, 'Poems.'

Achievement July 1, 1881

1884

Marriage to Constance Lloyd

Married Constance Lloyd; they had two sons.

Relationship May 29, 1884

1890

Published 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'

Published 'The Picture of Dorian Gray.'

Achievement July 1, 1890

1892

Popular plays produced

Achieved success with plays such as 'Lady Windermere's Fan,' 'A Woman of No Importance,' and 'The Importance of Being Earnest.'

Achievement February 20, 1892 - February 14, 1895

1895

First trial

Underwent a series of trials for 'gross indecency' due to his sexuality.

Other April 3, 1895 - May 25, 1895

Imprisonment

Imprisoned at Reading Gaol for 'gross indecency.'

Other May 25, 1895 - May 19, 1897

1897

Exile in France

Lived in exile in France after his release from prison.

Other May 20, 1897 - November 30, 1900

1900

Death

Oscar Wilde died in Paris, France.

Other November 30, 1900