The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

The Picture of Dorian Gray follows the story of a young man whose obsession with eternal youth and beauty leads him down a dark path. When Dorian Gray has his portrait painted, he makes a Faustian wish that the painting ages while he remains youthful. As he indulges in hedonistic pleasures, the portrait becomes a grotesque reflection of his moral decay. Oscar Wilde’s only novel explores themes of vanity, corruption, and the consequences of living a life without accountability. The novel’s lush prose and biting social commentary critique Victorian hypocrisy, making it a timeless examination of human frailty. Its exploration of art, morality, and identity has sparked debates for over a century, cementing its status as a cornerstone of Gothic and philosophical literature. Wilde’s wit and symbolism weave a tale that is as haunting as it is thought-provoking, challenging readers to confront the duality of human nature.