Characters
This character is the artist who paints the portrait of Dorian Gray
Who is Basil Halward
This theme explores the consequences of placing value on appearances over morality.
What is superficiality?
This object symbolises Dorian’s soul and moral decay.
What is the portrait?
The story begins in this city, where Dorian sits for his portrait.
What is London?
Oscar Wilde was born in this country.
What is Ireland?
This hedonistic friend introduces Dorian to the philosophy of aestheticism.
Who is Lord Henry Wotton?
The novel critiques this philosophy that prioritises beauty and pleasure over ethics.
What is aestheticism?
This type of flower, associated with Dorian, symbolises beauty and transience.
What is the white rose?
Dorian first realises the portrait is changing after he does this to Sibyl.
What is reject her?
The Picture of Dorian Gray was first published in this year.
What is 1890?
SHe is the young actress DOrian falls in love with.
Who is Sibyl Vane?
Dorian’s descent into corruption illustrates this theme about the dangers of unchecked desire.
What is the pursuit of pleasure?
Sibyl Vane’s acting symbolises this aspect of her relationship with Dorian.
What is illusion versus reality?
Dorian destroys the portrait by doing this.
What is stabbing it?
Wilde’s novel was controversial for its depiction of this.
What is immorality?
Dorian Gray murders this character in a fit of rage.
Who is Basil Halward?
The contrast between Dorian’s eternal youth and his decaying portrait reflects this theme.
What is the duality of human nature?
The opium dens Dorian frequents symbolise this aspect of his character.
What is his moral degradation?
Lord Henry gives Dorian this book, which influences his downfall.
What is the "yellow book"?
Wilde was imprisoned for this crime.
What is gross indecency?
This character is Sibyl Vane's brother, who takes revenge on Dorian.
Who is James Vane?
The novel’s tragic ending underscores this theme about the inevitability of facing one’s sins.
What is accountability?
Basil’s painting studio symbolises this thematic contrast
What is art versus life?
Dorian blackmails this character into disposing of Basil’s body.
Who is ALan Campbell?
This philosophy, championed by Wilde, emphasises living for beauty and art.
What is aestheticism?