The Picture of Dorian Gray

Definition

The Picture of Dorian Gray is a novel by Oscar Wilde that tells the story of a young man named Dorian Gray who becomes the subject of a portrait painted by artist Basil Hallward. The painting captures Dorian's youthful beauty, but as he indulges in a life of excess and hedonism, it becomes a reflection of his moral decay, while Dorian himself remains outwardly youthful. This work explores themes of aestheticism, morality, and the effects of a changing urban landscape on individual identity and values.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The novel was first published in 1890 and was controversial for its themes of moral ambiguity and sexual exploration.
2. Dorian's wish to remain young forever is symbolized by the portrait that ages and reflects his sins, showcasing the duality of appearance versus reality.
3. Wilde's work critiques Victorian society's obsession with beauty and youth, highlighting the superficial nature of societal values.
4. The setting of London plays a crucial role in the narrative, representing both a place of artistic inspiration and moral corruption.
5. Dorian's eventual downfall illustrates the consequences of a life lived without ethical considerations, making a strong statement about personal responsibility in a rapidly changing society.

Review Questions

• How does Oscar Wilde use the character of Dorian Gray to reflect the ideals and contradictions of aestheticism?
  • Wilde uses Dorian Gray as a vessel to explore the ideals of aestheticism, particularly the belief in beauty and sensory experience as paramount. Dorian's initial embrace of beauty leads him to a life filled with indulgence and pleasure. However, as he becomes increasingly corrupt, Wilde illustrates the contradiction within aestheticism: while seeking pleasure may bring temporary satisfaction, it ultimately leads to profound moral decay and personal ruin.
• Discuss the significance of London as a backdrop in The Picture of Dorian Gray and how it influences Dorian’s character development.
  • London serves as more than just a setting; it symbolizes the complexities of urban life in the late 19th century. The city's vibrant art scene entices Dorian into a world of excess and vice, reflecting both its allure and danger. As Dorian navigates this rapidly changing environment, his character transforms from innocent youth to a morally ambiguous figure shaped by external influences, highlighting how urbanization impacts individual identities.
• Evaluate how The Picture of Dorian Gray critiques societal values in relation to beauty, morality, and individual responsibility amidst urban change.
  • Wilde critiques Victorian society's obsession with beauty and youth through Dorian Gray's tragic journey. As Dorian pursues hedonism without regard for morality, Wilde emphasizes the superficiality inherent in societal values that prioritize appearance over ethical integrity. The story serves as a cautionary tale about personal responsibility; in an era marked by rapid urban change and shifting values, it warns against the dangers of losing one's moral compass while chasing societal ideals.

Related terms

Aestheticism: A late 19th-century movement that emphasized beauty and artistic expression over moral or social themes, often associated with the idea that 'art for art's sake' is a guiding principle.

Hedonism: A philosophical doctrine that advocates the pursuit of pleasure and self-indulgence as the highest good and ultimate aim of life.

Urbanization: The process by which rural areas transform into urban areas, often characterized by population growth, industrial development, and changes in lifestyle and social structures.