Earnest vs Ernest

According to Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary by definition Earnest is a serious and intent mental state while Ernest is just a man's name. I guess back in the 1800s a woman would want a husband who is in a serious and intent mental state. But after reading The Importance of Being Earnest, I'm a little boggled. I find that the character Earnest really doesn't fit this description. He has been living lies and acting rash (proposing, and wanting to be christened). And yet Gwendolyn still loves him and wants him to be Earnest, because she's always wanted to marry an Earnest. Earnest has tragedy written in his name. I would take Ernest over Earnest.