The Picture of Dorian Gray Paperback - 1993
by Oscar Wilde
About this book
"The Picture of Dorian Gray" is a classic novel by Oscar Wilde, first published in 1890. It tells the story of a young, handsome man named Dorian Gray, who becomes the subject of a portrait painted by an artist named Basil Hallward. Dorian is introduced to the pleasures of life by his friend, Lord Henry Wotton, who encourages him to pursue beauty and pleasure above all else.
Dorian becomes obsessed with his own youth and beauty, and he wishes that his portrait would age instead of him. His wish is granted, and he remains youthful while his portrait shows the physical and moral decay of his life. As Dorian becomes increasingly depraved, his portrait becomes more and more grotesque, reflecting the ugliness of his soul.
"The Picture of Dorian Gray" is a haunting and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of beauty, morality, and the corrupting influence of society. It remains one of Oscar Wilde's most famous works and is widely regarded as a LGBTQ+ masterpiece of English literature.
Reader reviews for The Picture of Dorian Gray
Review summary
Readers widely praised Wilde’s razor-edged dialogue, quotable aphorisms, and the novel’s meditation on beauty, art, hedonism, and conscience. The magnetic pull of Lord Henry and his influence on Dorian—alongside sympathy for Basil—was a recurring focus, as were the Gothic premise and queer undertones. Many found the ending arresting. The most common complaints were uneven pacing and excess ornamentation—especially the catalog-like Chapter XI—plus occasionally thin motivations and an episodic feel. Several flagged dated prejudices. Overall, responses were strong but divided: for many, a brilliant, provocative classic; for others, an overlong philosophical showcase with standout moments.
Readers say this book is:
wittyornate prosethought-provokinguneven pacingdraggy Chapter 11powerful endingGothicphilosophicalpolarizinghomoerotic undertonesWrite a review for this book
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From the publisher
From the rear cover
First edition identification
Ward, Lock published a First UK Edition, First Printing hardcover in 1891, London. The edition is characterized by vellum backed boards.
Charles Carrington published a First Illustrated Edition, First Printing in 1908, Paris. Finely bound by the Chelsea Bindery in purple morocco, spine lettered and decorated in gilt, raised bands, marbled endpapers, and gilt edges.
John Lane Bodley Head & Dodd Mead published a First Illustrated Edition Thus, First Printing in 1925, US. The edition is bound in cloth boards with 12 full page engravings by Henry Keen.
Brentano’s published a First US Edition, First Printing in 1906, New York.
The World Publishing Co., published a Towers-Books-Edition, First Printing in 1944.
Heritage Press published a First Edition Thus, First Printing hardcover in 1957, New York.
Details
- Title The Picture of Dorian Gray
- Author Oscar Wilde
- Binding Paperback
- Edition [ Edition: Repri
- Pages 176
- Volumes 1
- Language ENG
- Publisher Dover Publications, Mineola, New York, U.S.A.
- Publication date 1993-10-13
- ISBN 9780486278070 / 0486278077
- Weight 0.3 lbs (0.14 kg)
- Dimensions 8.2 x 5.2 x 0.5 in (20.83 x 13.21 x 1.27 cm)
- Age range 11 to UP years
- Grade levels 6 - UP
- Reading level 920
-
Themes
- Chronological Period: 19th Century
- Cultural Region: Ireland
- Category Literature - Classics / Criticism
- Library of Congress subjects Didactic fiction, Conduct of life - Fiction
- Library of Congress Catalogue Number 93024484
- Dewey Decimal Code FIC
About the author
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