The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

Title: The Picture of Dorian Gray
Author: Oscar Wilde
Publisher: Penguin Classics; Revised edition (February 4, 2003)
Genre: Gothic Fiction, Philosophical Fiction
Year of Publication: 1890 (original publication); 2003
Date of Publication: July 1890 (original serial version); April 1891 (revised edition); February 4, 2003
Pages: 304
ISBN-10: 0141439572
ISBN-13: 978-0141439570

Summary

Main Plot & Characters

The Picture of Dorian Gray follows the young and handsome Dorian Gray, who becomes the subject of a portrait painted by artist Basil Hallward.

Influenced by Lord Henry Wotton, Dorian grows obsessed with beauty, youth, and pleasure. In a moment of vanity, he wishes to remain young forever, with his portrait aging in his place.

Over time, Dorian lives a life of indulgence and moral decay, while his portrait reflects the horrors of his actions.

Eventually, Dorian’s conscience catches up with him, leading to a tragic conclusion as he confronts the true cost of his life choices.

Key Themes

• Beauty and Corruption: The novel explores how the obsession with beauty leads to moral corruption. Dorian’s vanity and hedonism ultimately destroy him.
• Influence and Morality: Dorian’s descent into corruption is spurred by Lord Henry’s influence, raising questions about personal responsibility and moral choice.
• Duality of Human Nature: Dorian’s portrait represents the hidden, darker side of his personality. His outward charm contrasts sharply with his internal decay.
• Consequences of Hedonism: The novel critiques a life lived solely for pleasure. Wilde shows how hedonism, unchecked, can lead to emptiness and self-destruction.

Writing Style

Wilde’s writing is witty, elegant, and filled with paradoxes.

The book captures both the glamour and darkness of Victorian society.

Wilde’s use of dialogue, particularly through Lord Henry’s character, brings sharp philosophical reflections on beauty, morality, and influence.

Impact of The Picture of Dorian Gray

The Picture of Dorian Gray has become a classic, celebrated for its bold critique of aestheticism and its exploration of vanity, morality, and the soul.

Initially controversial for its themes of decadence and immorality, the novel has since gained recognition as a significant work of Gothic and philosophical fiction.

Its timeless themes continue to resonate, influencing literature, film, and popular culture.

Today, The Picture of Dorian Gray stands as a powerful commentary on the dangers of superficiality and the consequences of living solely for pleasure.

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