Oscar Wildeâs only full-length novel âThe Picture of Dorian Grayâ was first published in 1890 and is the classic tale of the moral decline of its title character, Dorian Gray. While Dorian has his portrait painted by Basil Hallward he is lectured to by Lord Henry Wotton, who espouses a hedonistic world view. Dorian is drawn to Wottonâs belief that beauty and sensuality are the only things in life worth pursuing and wishes that he would stay young while his portrait changes instead. In the years that follow Dorian pursues a life of vice and debauchery, committing unspeakable acts along the way. With the passage of time, Dorianâs wish comes true, as his age and withering moral character are reflected in his portrait instead of himself. âThe Picture of Dorian Grayâ is arguably one of Wildeâs most popular works, which caused quite a scandal in Victorian England when it was first published, for its glorification of decadency. A chilling tale, âThe Picture of Dorian Grayâ is at once both an intricate character study and a sharp criticism of the improprieties of the Victorian age. This edition includes a biographical afterword.
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