Literary Works

The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde: Summary and Themes

Published March 5, 2024 · 5 views

The Picture of Dorian Gray is a novel by Oscar Wilde, first published or performed around 1890. This study guide gives a summary, themes and revision tips.

Summary

A man stays young while his portrait records his sins.

Key Themes

The main themes are vanity, corruption and aestheticism.

Quick Facts

TitleThe Picture of Dorian Gray
AuthorOscar Wilde
Date1890
Formnovel

Study Questions

  • How does Oscar Wilde present the theme of vanity?
  • Which characters or images best express the central ideas of The Picture of Dorian Gray?
  • How does the novel form shape the reader's response?