"The Picture of Dorian Gray" by Oscar Wilde is a late 19th-century novel that delves into themes of art, beauty, morality, and the dangers of vanity. The story centers on Dorian Gray, a strikingly handsome young man who becomes captivated by his own appearance and drawn to the seductive, hedonistic worldview of Lord Henry Wotton. As Dorian remains physically untouched by time and sin, his portrait bears the marks of his moral decay, illustrating the hidden cost of a life devoted to pleasure and eternal youth.
At the beginning of the novel, readers are introduced to Lord Henry and Basil Hallward, an artist who has painted a remarkable portrait of Dorian. Basil is deeply moved by Dorian’s beauty and seems to harbor an unspoken affection for him. The early chapters establish a compelling contrast between Basil’s sincere admiration and Lord Henry’s provocative cynicism.
When Dorian arrives at Basil’s studio and meets Lord Henry for the first time, the encounter becomes a turning point. Lord Henry’s philosophy—that beauty and sensual experience are life’s highest values—deeply influences Dorian, awakening in him a fear of aging and a longing to preserve his youth at any cost.
This opening sets the stage for a chilling moral tale, foreshadowing the tragic consequences that follow when one chooses appearance over conscience, and pleasure over virtue.
