The Picture of Dorian Gray

The Picture of Dorian Gray is an epoch-making philosophic novel by Oscar Wild dedicated to the topic of degradation of morals and consciousness. According to the plot, an unspoiled young man Dorian Gray, first introduced to the high society, meets a wealthy spiritual patron descending the young man into the world of hedonism. Step by step, through a range of life events, Dorian loses his morals, yet, his face keeps young, speaking of unspoiled innocence. The secret of this phenomenon lies in the magical peculiarity of a portrait Dorian received as a present. The portrait ages instead of Dorian, letting him conceive the traces of sinful life.

Oscar Wilde (1854–1900) remains one of the most illustrious and provocative writers in English literature, known for his sharp wit, flamboyant style, and a penchant for challenging the societal norms of his time. Born in Dublin, Ireland, Wilde became an influential voice during the late Victorian era, advocating for individualism and aestheticism, an intellectual stance that art should exist for beauty alone, rather than to serve a moral or utilitarian function. He studied classic literature at Trinity College, Dublin, and Magdalen College, Oxford, where he excelled and won numerous accolades. Wilde's bibliography encompasses a diverse array of works, ranging from poetic meditations to iconic plays such as 'The Importance of Being Earnest' and 'An Ideal Husband'. However, it is perhaps his 1890 novel 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' that endures as his most celebrated and controversial work. This novel, which explores themes of decadence, vanity, and moral duplicity, illustrates Wilde's fascination with the blurred lines between art and life, along with the dangers of yielding to temptation. Despite facing personal scandals and a trial that led to his imprisonment, Oscar Wilde's literary output continued to earn recognition and remains a cornerstone of English literature for its eloquence and its ability to critique social mores with biting humor and insight. His work has inspired countless adaptations and remains widely read and studied, reflecting his lasting relevance and the enduring power of his artistry.