Do you enjoy reading novels which based on characters with alter ego?

If your answer is YES, I would like to recommend you The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde as your next read.

The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde is The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde is a provocative and thought-provoking novel that challenges conventional notions of morality, art, and the consequences of indulging in one's desires.

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Summary

Set in the vibrant and decadent society of late 19th-century London, the novel revolves around the life of Dorian Gray, a young and exceptionally handsome man.

When the talented artist Basil Hallward paints Dorian's portrait, the young man is captivated by his own beauty and becomes deeply aware of the fleeting nature of youth and beauty.

Dorian meets the cynical and hedonistic Lord Henry Wotton, who introduces him to a life of pleasure-seeking and self-indulgence.

In a moment of vanity, Dorian wishes that the portrait will age instead of him, allowing him to retain his youthful appearance forever, while the portrait bears the burden of his sins.

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As Dorian dives into a life of debauchery, immorality, and secret sins, he becomes increasingly ruthless, cruel, and morally corrupted.

His soul remains untainted, but the portrait hidden away in his attic becomes a horrifying reflection of his true nature.

While Dorian maintains a facade of charm and innocence in society, the portrait serves as a haunting reminder of the darkness consuming his soul.

 

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Suitable Audience

The Picture of Dorian Gray is a compelling read for those who appreciate philosophical and introspective works of literature.

If you enjoy exploring themes of morality, the human psyche, and the consequences of one's actions, you will find this novel a deeply satisfying and intellectually stimulating experience.

 

My Thoughts

Dorian Gray is a complicated character.

Initially charming and innocent, his descent into moral decay and the struggle between his conscience and his desires make him a compelling figure to follow throughout the narrative.

Lord Henry Wotton, with his sharp wit and cynical views on life, serves as a catalyst for Dorian's transformation.

He influences Dorian's actions and beliefs, leading him down the path of hedonism and self-destruction.

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Basil Hallward, the sensitive and talented artist, plays the role of the moral compass in the novel.

His admiration for Dorian's beauty and genuine concern for his well-being create a moral conflict within him as he becomes aware of the darkness lurking behind the young man's exterior.

Oscar Wilde's writing style in The Picture of Dorian Gray is characterized by its eloquence, wit, and philosophical musings.

His use of clever dialogues and epigrams adds depth to the characters and provides insights into the underlying themes of the novel.

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The plot unfolds at a deliberate pace, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the intricacies of the characters' motivations and actions.

The author masterfully blended elements of Gothic horror, social satire, and psychological drama to create a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

The novel also offers a profound examination of the corrupting influence of vanity and the consequences of leading a life devoid of conscience.

The author’s exploration of the duality of human nature and the internal struggle between good and evil makes the novel a timeless and universal tale.

This is a must-read literary triumph with a compelling and unsettling examination of human nature and the pursuit of pleasure at the expense of one's soul.  

With love,

Mora

Would you like to read the book? Or have you already read it? Let me know your thoughts in the comment section!