Classics Revisited: The Picture of Dorian Gray

Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray is a tactful exploration of beauty, corruption and the human psyche, offering a searing critique of a society obsessed with appearances.

The story follows a young and beautiful Dorian Gray, who, influenced by the hedonistic philosophy of Lord Henry, makes a pact that allows his portrait to age and bear the consequences of his sins while he remains youthful and untouched.

Wilde does an incredible job crafting distinct, fleshed-out characters with Basil Hallward, Lord Henry and the titular character, Dorian Gray. This is why I find it disappointing that though pivotal to the plot, Dorian’s doomed love interest, Sibyl Vane’s character is somewhat underdeveloped.

My very old copy of The Picture of Dorian Gray that I found at Select Book Shop

Lord Henry’s character, on the other hand, is so steeped in wit and charm, that I found myself getting wrapped up in his philosophy at times. So, it is not at all surprising to see Dorian quickly enchanted by his teachings. It is notable that while Lord Henry advocates for Dorian to live life without regret or conscience, he himself leads a fairly decent and moral life.

The long, winded monologues do come off as off-putting at times, but the language is much more accessible than other classics from the time.

Ultimately, Wilde poses a question: what happens when you divorce your actions from their consequences? Dorian’s retreat into his portrait is his answer, creating a safe space for his sins and indulgences while the world sees only beauty. Yet, this detachment from his conscience is not freedom, but a slow descent into a life without meaning or real connection. And despite its flaws, the novel’s sharp critique of society remains strikingly relevant today, making it a good book to pick up if you’re looking for some gothic fiction.