Oscar Wilde was an Irish poet, playwright, and essayist renowned for his wit, flamboyant style, and keen social commentary. Born in Dublin, he studied at Trinity College and later at Oxford, where he excelled in classics and developed a lifelong fascination with aestheticism. His most famous works include The Picture of Dorian Gray (1890) and plays such as The Importance of Being Earnest (1895), which showcase his mastery of satire and comedy. Wilde was also a prolific journalist and critic, contributing to various periodicals. His life took a tragic turn when he was imprisoned in 1895 for "gross indecency" due to his relationship with Lord Alfred Douglas. After serving two years of hard labor, he lived in exile in France, where he wrote De Profundis and The Ballad of Reading Gaol. He died in 1900, leaving behind a literary legacy that continues to captivate readers.

Robert Baldwin Ross, known as Robbie Ross, was a Canadian journalist, art critic, and literary executor of Oscar Wilde’s estate. A devoted friend and former lover of Wilde, Ross played a crucial role in preserving and publishing Wilde’s works after his death. He was an advocate for aestheticism and modern art, writing extensively on these subjects. Ross was also known for his courageous defense of Wilde during and after his trial, standing by him despite public condemnation. As Wilde’s literary executor, he arranged for the posthumous publication of De Profundis and other writings. His dedication ensured Wilde’s reputation endured beyond the scandal and persecution he faced. Ross remained an influential figure in London’s artistic circles until his death in 1918.