DARLINGTON
"What cynics you fellows are!"
GRAHAM
"What is a cynic?"
DARLINGTON
"A man who knows the price of everything, and the value of nothing."

In this exchange from Oscar Wilde's "Lady Windermere's Fan," Lord Darlington offers a sharp observation on cynicism. His definition suggests that cynics can appraise the cost of things but fail to appreciate their true worth. This implies a superficial understanding of life, where monetary value overshadows deeper, intrinsic values. Wilde's wit here critiques a society preoccupied with appearances and materialism, reflecting his broader commentary on Victorian values. Darlington's remark, while humorous, underscores a pervasive disconnect between knowing and valuing, prompting audiences to reflect on the difference between possessing knowledge and cultivating wisdom. It also adds depth to Darlington's character, revealing his own awareness of societal flaws even as he entangles himself in its complexities. Such insights contribute to the play's exploration of moral ambiguity and the human tendency to overlook the essence in favor of the external.