The Picture of Dorian Gray

After having recently read a couple of books by Austen and a few by Dickens I thought of taking on a different author for a change.

So my choice fell on Wilde. When I found out that he was Irish I thought I would be learning some Irish culture, but I was completely unaware of the fact that Ireland at the time in the late 18 hundreds was still a part of Great Britain. Besides, this story is set in London.

Pre-Expectations

I must admit, my expectations before reading his book were somewhat different to the actual plot, partly because I thought it would be similar to Austen's writing. But I was mistaken.

I am not saying that I prefer her style to his, I am simply saying that they are different.

The story did have an effect on me in the most unexpected way though.

It is highly psychological in terms of the characters' actions and pursuits. The story revolves around a young man, Dorian Gray, who was later in possession of a portrait which aged while he stayed outwardly beautiful, and deals with a lot of social corruption.

Essential Characters

My favourite character, Lord Henry Wotton, is highly intellectual and able to influence anyone with his way of thinking and essentially manipulative speeches. In my opinion there is always some truth in what he says, but I also think that everyone should form their own opinion instead of relying on others, it takes away their conscience.

And of course there is Basil Hallward, without whom this story wouldn't have even been possible. He was a brilliant artist and produced a graceful portrait of Dorian Gray. However, the subject of the painting became jealous of the unchanging version of himself. I felt a bit sorry for Basil throughout the story. He was acquainted with Dorian before Lord Henry (Harry) was, and as soon as Harry heard of him, he instantly wanted to meet him too. When he did he enticed Dorian with his sharp quotes, which was the foundation of Dorian`s change in character and mindset. After that, poor Basil was not much in the plot anymore and didn't draw any more portraits of Gray. He was essential to begin with and became less important as the story unfolded, and eventually fell victim to a horrific tragedy.

Dorian Gray on the other hand was a young man, or as Wilde would put it "lad", of remarkable beauty. Everyone adored him, yet no one more than he adored himself. He had everything anyone could ever wish for in terms of wealth. And, dear readers, if you ever wish to read this book or already have, you will find that possessing too much wealth is maybe not that beneficial after all. In the case of Dorian Gray it was quite sorrowful.

He was rather selfish and didn't care much for other people's feelings, which led to a lot of social misunderstandings and conflicts. Even when he finally realised that he had to change, it was already too late.

I guess once you get in the habit of doing something it`s hard to let go of it or face the consequences.

Dorian wanted to hold on to his pride forever, but nothing is forever, and even he came to understand that in the end.

Personal Summary and Opinions

This book was both tragic and beautiful.

The thing that struck me most while reading it was Wilde's portrayal of his contemporary society. I can relate to Austen in this circumstance, she also talked openly about the times she lived in. Somehow I find it quite fascinating to compare their statements with modern life today. It shows us that the way people thought 150 to 200 years ago wasn't that different to how we think and act now.

It would be really interesting to know how Wilde or even Austen would describe today's world.

In my opinion this book is quite remarkable in terms of psychology. It shows someone how easily you can be influenced by another person`s opinion and mindset. I think its very important that we as individuals form our own opinions and are capable of justifying them.

To quote Lord Henry: "The aim of life is self-development. To realize one`s nature perfectly - that is what each of us is here for."

This book was highly educational for me to read and I can certainly say that Wilde inspired me in many ways, and I`m definitely willing to read more of his works. It always gives me something to cogitate about.