The Picture Of Dorian Gray

 

Title The Picture Of Dorian Gray
Author Oscar Wilde
Genre Fiction, Gothic, Horror, Philosophical Psychological, Social Criticism, Supernatural
Format Digital

 

+ 100 Total Pages

Read it on All Devices

+ 1,000 Active Readers

 

Book Description

The Picture of Dorian Gray (1890) is Oscar Wilde’s only novel, a dark and captivating exploration of vanity, moral corruption, and the pursuit of pleasure. The story follows Dorian Gray, a handsome young man who, under the influence of the hedonistic Lord Henry Wotton, wishes that his portrait would age instead of him, allowing him to live a life of indulgence without facing the consequences. As Dorian descends into a life of excess and moral degradation, his portrait grows more monstrous, reflecting the true state of his soul. Wilde’s novel challenges ideas of beauty, youth, and morality, making it both a psychological thriller and a profound philosophical examination of self-destruction.

 

About Author

Oscar Wilde

Oscar Wilde (1854–1900) was an Irish playwright, poet, and novelist known for his sharp wit, flamboyant personality, and keen social critique. A leading figure of the Aesthetic Movement, Wilde championed “art for art’s sake” and became famous for his brilliant epigrams and satirical works.

His only novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray (1890), is a Gothic masterpiece exploring vanity, moral corruption, and hedonism. Wilde’s plays, including The Importance of Being Earnest (1895) and An Ideal Husband (1895), are celebrated for their witty dialogue and comedic brilliance. He also wrote fairy tales, such as those in The Happy Prince and Other Tales (1888), which blend beauty with poignant social themes.

Wilde’s career was cut short when he was imprisoned for “gross indecency” due to his homosexuality. After his release in 1897, he lived in exile in France, where he wrote The Ballad of Reading Gaol (1898), reflecting on his suffering. He died in 1900, leaving behind a legacy as one of literature’s most iconic and quotable figures.