The Picture of Dorian Gray - Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Written by Oscar Wilde
• First published in a shortened version in 1890
• Standalone book published in 1891
• Considered a manifesto of Wilde's poetics
• Represents English decadentism and asceticism

Main Characters

Dorian Gray

• A young man of extraordinary beauty
• Has his portrait painted by an artist
• Gains a spell to retain his youth while the portrait ages
• Embarks on a life of excess
• Ultimately overwhelmed by guilt and anxiety

Lord Henry Wotton

• A significant influence on Dorian's life choices

Themes

• Decadence and Aestheticism
  • Myth of eternal youth
  • Exploration of depravity
  • Celebration of beauty and pleasure as a supreme art form
  • Life as individual artistic creation beyond moral judgment
• Victorian Response
  • Bold critique of Victorian morals and societal norms

Plot Summary

• Dorian Gray wishes that his portrait would age instead of him
• He lives a hedonistic lifestyle while the portrait bears the marks of his sins
• In a moment of despair, Dorian rips the canvas
• Confronts his true self, resulting in his death
• His corpse found as an old man next to the portrait of his youthful self

Writing Style

• Clear, refined writing
• Full of brilliant aphorisms and witty dialogue
• Vivid descriptions of settings and character emotions

Imagery in the Novel

• Rich sensory descriptions (e.g., scents of roses and lilacs)
• Evocative imagery reflecting the characters' feelings
• Use of contrasting elements (e.g., beauty vs. decay)

Conclusion

• The Picture of Dorian Gray remains a significant part of literary studies
• Continues to resonate with themes relevant to contemporary discussions of morality, art, and identity.