Basil Hallward paints Dorian Gray’s portrait and is so impressed by how beautiful and youthful Dorian looks. Dorian is saddened by the thought that he will one day grow old and makes a wish that he would stay looking like the portrait forever. Encouraged by Lord Henry, Dorian begins to do things that are not kind or decent. Dorian discovers his portrait changes based on his behavior. As the years go by, Dorian stays young and innocent looking while his portrait begins to look evil and old. Eventually, Dorian’s conscience catches up with him and he decides to turn his life around and “kill” the portrait.
The Picture of Dorian Gray is well-written, though it does get wordy and tedious at times. The description of Dorian’s madness at leading a sort of double life is well done. The differences between Basil and Lord Henry, one encouraging Dorian to be a good person and the other encouraging him to enjoy himself no matter who he has to step on in the process, reminded me of the concept of an angel on one shoulder and a devil on the other. I recommend this book.
4 (out of 5) Stars
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