The Picture of Dorian Gray

This famous story The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde is set in 19th-century England. Artist Basil Hallward paints an impressive portrait of his young and handsome friend, Dorian Gray, who is delighted with the work. However, Dorian’s encounter with Basil’s friend, the cynical Lord Henry Wotton, leads him down a darker path. Lord Henry becomes a bad influence on the impressionable Dorian, persuading him that the only important thing in life is the pursuit of pleasure. Dorian wishes he could remain young and handsome forever, while his portrait ages instead of him. As Dorian’s life becomes increasingly decadent, his wish begins to come true.