More has been written about Wilde, since his death, than about writers with thrice his output. Through this forest of comment James Laver cleaves a swift way. He summarizes Wilde's background and achievement and analyses what is most significant in his work. 'As a literary-historical figure, Wilde is unique', he concludes. 'Without him neither the Aesthetic Movement of the 'eighties, nor the Decadent Movement of the 'nineties, can be understood. He has his permanent niche in the literature of England and in the literature of the world.'

Mr Laver, who was until his retirement keeper of Prints and Drawings at the Victoria and Albert Museum, is the author of many books on literature, art, and taste, distinguished for their witty writing, their elegant style and their well-digested learning.