Oscar Wilde
What’s inside
Oscar Wilde’s only novel, ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray,’ explores themes of aestheticism, moral duplicity, and the pursuit of beauty. It centers on Dorian Gray, whose portrait ages while he remains young and indulges in hedonistic pleasures.
You’ll Learn
- Insight into the philosophical debate of beauty versus morality
- Understanding of aestheticism and its critique in Victorian society
- Exploration of the human tendency toward self-destruction and duplicity
- Appreciation for Wilde’s rich prose and sharp social commentary
Key Points
- Dorian Gray’s Faustian Bargain and Eternal Youth
- The Seductive Power of Art and Aestheticism
- The Impact of Lord Henry’s Hedonistic Philosophy
- The Deterioration of Dorian’s Morality and Humanity
- The Symbolism of the Portrait as Dorian’s Conscience
- The Role of Secrecy and the Double Life
- The Tragic Downfall and the Price of Vanity
Who’s it For
- Classic literature enthusiasts
- Philosophy students
- Fans of Gothic fiction
- Readers interested in themes of morality and beauty
About the author
Oscar Wilde was an Irish playwright, novelist, and poet known for his biting wit, flamboyant style, and infamous imprisonment for ‘gross indecency.’