The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde is a haunting and philosophical exploration of vanity, morality, and the cost of eternal youth. At the heart of the novel is Dorian Gray, a young man who becomes obsessed with preserving his beauty after seeing a striking portrait of himself. When he makes a fateful wish—that he should remain young while the painting ages—his descent into corruption begins.
Encouraged by the hedonistic Lord Henry Wotton, Dorian embraces a life of indulgence and excess, hiding his sins behind a charming façade. While Dorian remains outwardly untouched by time, his portrait becomes increasingly grotesque, bearing the weight of his inner decay.
Controversial upon its release in 1890, the novel shocked Victorian readers with its dark themes and veiled references to taboo topics. It was even used as evidence in Wilde’s infamous trial for gross indecency. Today, it’s celebrated as a gothic masterpiece and a powerful critique of superficiality and moral hypocrisy.
This edition features an introduction by Robert Mighall and additional commentary including early reviews that condemned the novel, providing historical context for Wilde’s only full-length novel. A must-read classic that still resonates today.
