The Picture of Dorian Gray
by Oscar Wilde
The Picture of Dorian Gray is a suspense novel by Oscar Wilde, narrating the tale of Dorian Gray, and his mysterious life.
Source:
Wilde, O. (1890).
- “Chapter 1”
- The novel opens with Basil and Lord Henry discussing a painting, as well as the subject of the painting, and theories of art. Basil wants to keep things secret from Lord Henry, but finds that he is unable to do so.
- “Chapter 2”
- Lord Henry’s influence on Dorian begins. Basil considers what to do with the painting.
- “Chapter 3”
- Lord Henry investigates Dorian’s background and shows of his clever talk at lunch.
- “Chapter 4”
- Dorian reveals his interest in Sibyl Vane to Lord Henry.
- “Chapter 5”
- Sibyl and her family discuss her engagement.
- “Chapter 6”
- Lord Henry and Basil discuss Dorian and marriage. Dorian’s views are further influenced by Lord Henry.
- “Chapter 7”
- The men go to the theatre, but Sibyl’s performance does not live up to Dorian’s expectations. Dorian is cruel to Sibyl, but only realizes it later.
- “Chapter 8”
- Dorian decides to make amends to Sibyl as Lord Henry brings news. Dorian feels the whole experience to be like a play he is watching. He commits himself to maintaining his youth and beauty.
- “Chapter 9”
- Basil comes to see Dorian after hearing news of Sibyl. He inquires about showing the portrait of Dorian
- “Chapter 10”
- Dorian decides to move the painting to the attic. He is suspicious of others. Lord Henry sends over a book, as well as an article on Sibyl.
- “Chapter 11”
- Years have passed. The narrator reveals what Dorian’s life has become.
- “Chapter 12”
- Basil tries to speak to Dorian about his reputation.
- “Chapter 13”
- Dorian reveals secrets to Basil, but is suddenly angered towards his old friend.
- “Chapter 14”
- Dorian wakes from peaceful sleep and is confronted by what actions to take after last night’s events. He contacts Alan Campbell to help him conceal what has happened.
- “Chapter 15”
- Dorian attends a dinner party, but finds himself distracted and bored. He returns home to discard the remaining evidence of Basil’s presence there.
- “Chapter 16”
- Dorian tries to escape his troubles. He is recognized by more people than he bargained for, but manages to get away.
- “Chapter 17”
- Dorian and friends move their party to Selby Royal. Dorian is distracted and tense. He faints.
- “Chapter 18”
- Dorian ponders his fate. He joins the men on a hunt, that ends with disturbing results.
- “Chapter 19”
- Dorian and Lord Henry discuss many things, including Dorian’s attempt to be a better person. Lord Henry tells Dorian not to change, and expresses his wish to recapture the youth that Dorian has seemingly managed to keep.
- “Chapter 20”
- After contemplating past and future, Dorian decides to rid himself of the portrait.