Matthew Sturgis

Oscar Wilde's life - like his wit - was alive with paradox. He was both an early exponent and a victim of 'celebrity culture'. His achievements were frequently downplayed, his successes resented. He had a genius for comedy but strove to write tragedies. He was an unabashed snob who nevertheless delighted in exposing the faults of society.

Although happily married, he became a passionate lover of men and - at the very peak of his success - brought disaster upon himself. Having delighted in fashionable throngs, Wilde died almost alone. Above all, his flamboyant refusal to conform to the social and sexual orthodoxies of his day make him a hero and an inspiration.

Matthew Sturgis draws on a wealth of new material and fresh research, bringing alive the most compelling portrait of Wilde to date.