Question

Which novel did Oscar Wilde write?

• A. The Canterville Ghost
• B. The Happy Prince
• C. The Picture of Dorian Gray
• D. The Ballad of Reading Gaol

Answer 1

Answer:

C. The Picture of Dorian Gray

The Picture of Dorian Gray (1891)

Summary

• This is Wilde’s only novel and explores themes of aestheticism, morality, and vanity.

• Dorian Gray, a young and handsome man, has his portrait painted by Basil Hallward. Under the influence of Lord Henry Wotton, Dorian wishes that he could remain young forever while the portrait ages instead.

• As he pursues a life of hedonism and corruption, the portrait grows older and more grotesque, reflecting his sins, while Dorian remains physically unchanged.

• In the end, Dorian, horrified by what he has become, destroys the portrait—only to be found dead, with the portrait restored to its original beauty.

Themes

• Aestheticism vs. Morality – The novel debates whether art should be separate from morality.

• The Cost of Hedonism – Dorian’s pursuit of pleasure leads to his downfall.

• Duality of Human Nature – Like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, the novel explores the contrast between appearance and reality.