The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde (1890). Summary of the book.

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The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde (1890)

Introduction

The Picture of Dorian Gray is a novel by Irish writer Oscar Wilde, first published in 1890. The story revolves around Dorian Gray, a handsome young man who has a wish to remain young and handsome forever. After he has his wish granted, his life turns into a tragedy. The novel has been adapted to the stage, television, and film multiple times, and it is considered one of the most influential works of literature of the late 19th century.

Plot Summary

The Picture of Dorian Gray follows the life of Dorian Gray, a young man of extraordinary beauty. He meets Basil Hallward, an artist who paints his portrait. Basil is captivated by Dorian’s beauty and decides to paint a portrait of him.

At the same time, Dorian meets Lord Henry Wotton, a hedonistic man who introduces him to a life of pleasure and immorality. Dorian is intrigued by Lord Henry’s world view and decides to live a life of debauchery.

After the painting is finished, Dorian makes a wish that the portrait will age instead of him, so that he can remain young forever. His wish is granted, and the painting begins to age while Dorian remains young and handsome.

However, Dorian’s life of debauchery takes its toll on him. He becomes increasingly immoral and his actions cause suffering to those around him. He also starts to feel guilty and ashamed of his behaviour.

Meanwhile, the painting continues to age and becomes increasingly grotesque. Eventually, Dorian realizes that he must take responsibility for his actions and he destroys the painting.

In the end, Dorian is killed by his former friend, who is revealed to be the painting’s painter, Basil.

Teachings

The Picture of Dorian Gray is a morality tale about the consequences of leading an immoral life. It teaches us that we are responsible for our own actions and that pleasure and indulgence can lead to suffering and guilt.

The novel also explores the theme of art and beauty. It shows us that beauty is only skin deep and that it fades with time. It also highlights the power of art and how it can be used to immortalize beauty.

Interesting Facts

  • The novel was initially published as a serial in a magazine. The Picture of Dorian Gray was first published in Lippincott’s Monthly Magazine in July 1890. It was later released as a book in 1891.
  • The novel was heavily censored. When it was first published in magazine form, it was heavily censored due to its controversial content. The book version was also censored.
  • The novel has been adapted multiple times. The Picture of Dorian Gray has been adapted for the stage, television, and film multiple times.
  • Oscar Wilde’s grave is a popular tourist attraction. Oscar Wilde’s grave in Paris is a popular tourist attraction. It is decorated with quotes from The Picture of Dorian Gray and other works by Wilde.

FAQs

  • What is The Picture of Dorian Gray about?

The Picture of Dorian Gray is a novel by Oscar Wilde about a young man named Dorian Gray whose wish to remain young and handsome forever is granted. His life then turns into a tragedy as he indulges in a life of debauchery and immorality.

  • Who wrote The Picture of Dorian Gray?

The Picture of Dorian Gray was written by Irish author Oscar Wilde, and first published in 1890.

  • What is the theme of The Picture of Dorian Gray?

The Picture of Dorian Gray is a morality tale about the consequences of leading an immoral life. It also explores the themes of art and beauty, showing us that beauty is only skin deep and that it fades with time.

  • What is the ending of The Picture of Dorian Gray?

In the end, Dorian is killed by his former friend, who is revealed to be the painting’s painter, Basil. He realizes too late that he must take responsibility for his actions and he destroys the painting.

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