Oscar Wilde's 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' delves into themes of aestheticism, morality, and the societal norms of the Victorian era. The novel follows Dorian Gray, a man whose portrait bears the scars of his hedonistic lifestyle, while he remains youthful. Wilde's work critiques the obsession with beauty and the superficiality of social behavior, incorporating elements of Gothic literature and reflecting on the role of art.
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Oscar Wilde, a Dublin-born playwright and author, made a lasting impact on Gothic literature with his novel "The Picture of Dorian Gray."
Exploration of Moral Duplicity and Homosexuality
Wilde's novel was met with controversy due to its exploration of moral duplicity and allusions to homosexual relationships, which were taboo at the time
Wilde's Response to Criticisms
Wilde added a preface to the book edition to address and rebut the criticisms of his novel
Over time, "The Picture of Dorian Gray" has become a celebrated work, examining aestheticism, the purpose of art, and the prevailing social norms of the Victorian era
The supernatural transformation of the portrait serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of vanity and the relentless pursuit of pleasure without ethical consideration
Role of Art
Wilde uses Lord Henry's character to argue that art should be appreciated for its beauty and not be burdened with moral or social messages, reflecting the Aesthetic movement's ideals
Obsession with Beauty and Youth
The novel explores the societal obsession with beauty and youth, which ultimately leads to Dorian's tragic end
Depiction of Homosexuality
The subtle depiction of homosexuality in the novel mirrors Wilde's own life and the repressive societal attitudes of the era
Basil Hallward's Adoration for Dorian
Basil's adoration for Dorian is crucial to the unfolding of the plot
Lord Henry's Manipulative Mentoring
Lord Henry's manipulative mentoring plays a key role in Dorian's descent into hedonism and aestheticism
Symbolism in the Novel
Wilde employs symbolism to great effect, with the portrait symbolizing Dorian's tormented soul and the opium dens representing his moral decline
Secondary characters, such as James Vane, embody Dorian's inescapable guilt, adding layers to the novel's thematic depth
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______, known for his contributions to Gothic literature, was born in ______.
Oscar Wilde
Dublin
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Dorian Gray's wish and its consequence
Dorian wishes his portrait to bear the marks of age/sin; portrait ages, he stays youthful, reflecting his moral decay.
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Role of Lord Henry Wotton
Lord Henry influences Dorian with hedonistic philosophy, leading to Dorian's moral decline.
