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The Picture of Dorian Gray

Annotated Edition (Alma Classics Evergreens)
Series: Evergreens
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde follows a young and beautiful man named Dorian Gray who becomes the subject of a painting by artist Basil Hallward. Under the influence of the hedonistic Lord Henry Wotton, Dorian wishes that he could remain young and beautiful forever, allowing the portrait to age instead. As he pursues a life of indulgence and moral decay, the portrait reflects the consequences of his actions, leading to unexpected and dramatic developments.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$1699
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy delving into themes of beauty, morality, and the consequences of vanity. This classic follows a young man whose portrait ages and reveals his inner corruption while he remains youthful. With elegant prose and a dark, philosophical edge, it's a fascinating exploration of hedonism and the human soul.

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The Picture of Dorian Gray

Part of Alma Classics Evergreen series at GBP4.99. Oscar Wilde's only full-length novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray is a lasting gem of sophisticated wit and playfulness, which brings together all the best elements of his talent in a reinterpretation of the Faustian myth. This edition contains photographs and a wealth of extra material.

Oscar Wilde’s only full-length novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray is a lasting gem of sophisticated wit and playfulness, which brings together all the best elements of his talent in a reinterpretation of the Faustian myth.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The Picture of Dorian Gray is the captivating tale of Dorian Gray, whose portrait is being painted by Basil Hallward, an artist charmed by his looks. However, when Sir Henry Wotton visits, he seduces Dorian into the worship of youthful beauty with an intoxicating speech.

Dorian makes a wish that he will live to regret: that all the marks of age will be reflected in the portrait, rather than on his own face. This sets the stage for a masterful exploration of appearance versus reality, art and life, truth and fiction, and the burden of conscience.

Series: Evergreens

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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Reviews generally praise The Picture of Dorian Gray for Oscar Wilde's astute observations and the novel's enduring impact. Critics like Borges highlight Wilde's almost unfailing correctness in his views, while Stephen Fry acknowledges his dual role as both an artist and thinker, suggesting his significance is still underestimated. The novel's powerful writing is emphasised by Morrissey, and Will Self suggests its lasting relevance. Sarah Waters comments on the novel's provocative exploration of duality and corruptive influence, adding to its complexity as a late-Victorian narrative.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781847493729

Publisher: Alma Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 28 August 2014

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Alma Classics

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 18.0mm

Width: 126.0mm

Height: 196.0mm

Weight: 260g

Pages: 256

About the Author

Famed for his brilliant wit, Oscar Wilde (1854-1900) was a prolific writer and one of the most successful playwrights of Victorian Britain, as well as a champion for the values of Aestheticism.

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