Oscar Wilde's critique of Victorian society stemmed from his personal experiences as a member of the upper class. His awareness of the strict societal norms surrounding sexuality and identity informed his plays and essays, where he lampooned hypocrisy and conformity. Wilde’s experiences with imprisonment due to his sexuality further fueled his critique of societal standards. His works, such as The Picture of Dorian Gray and The Importance of Being Earnest, challenge the era's moral rigidity and celebrate individualism. Through his wit and satire, Wilde ultimately advocated for a more liberated conception of personal identity.