Book Discussion Group: The Picture of Dorian Gray

The Picture of Dorian Gray was first published in Lippincott's Monthly Magazine as a serial story in 1890. Considered indecent by the publisher, it was subjected to censorship. Wilde revised his manuscript, added a preface and published it as a novel in 1891.

It is considered an example of Gothic fiction calling on themes from the legend of Faust.

Walter Pater

J.S. Huysmans​

Description from Amazon:

 In this celebrated work, his only novel, Wilde forged a devastating portrait of the effects of evil and debauchery on a young aesthete in late-19th-century England. Combining elements of the Gothic horror novel and decadent French fiction, the book centers on a striking premise: As Dorian Gray sinks into a life of crime and gross sensuality, his body retains perfect youth and vigor while his recently painted portrait grows day by day into a hideous record of evil, which he must keep hidden from the world. For over a century, this mesmerizing tale of horror and suspense has enjoyed wide popularity. It ranks as one of Wilde's most important creations and among the classic achievements of its kind.

Defining Relevant Terms

Aesthetic Movement

"Aesthetic Movement." The Bloomsbury Guide to Art. Ed. Shearer West. London: Bloomsbury, 1996. Credo Reference. Web. 16 October 2014.

Decadents

"Decadents." The Bloomsbury Dictionary of English Literature. Ed. Marion Wynne-Davies. London: Bloomsbury, 1997. Credo Reference. Web. 16 October 2014.

1945 Version

Wilde, Oscar

Born: 1854 Died: 1900
Irish poet, novelist, playwright, short story writer
From: Encyclopedia of British Writers, 1800 to the Present, Second Edition.