The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

The Picture of Dorian Gray follows a handsome young man whose portrait mysteriously bears the marks of age and moral corruption while he remains outwardly youthful. Influenced by the charming and cynical Lord Henry Wotton, Dorian pursues beauty, pleasure, and self-indulgence without considering the consequences. As his actions grow darker, the portrait becomes a disturbing reflection of his hidden guilt and damaged conscience. Oscar Wilde blends Gothic atmosphere, wit, philosophy, and psychological insight to explore vanity, temptation, morality, influence, and the dangers of living only for pleasure. The novel remains a powerful study of appearance, identity, and corruption.