Dorian Grey

Well, this book wasn't what I expected. I was expecting a tale of strange occurances, religious contemplation and deep dives into the occult. I'll admit, the plot was an unusual and intruiging idea, and had tonnes of potential, but was used in a completely different way than I had expected.

I think it is fair to say about the novel, that it is not only driven by the plot, but mainly by Wilde's views on his own society. He presents a decadent London, in which the upper classes find amusement and pleasure in watching their society decay around them. Where a scandal makes a man interesting and to be boring is almost as big a sin as murder. Through this tainted world of Wildes we see the decay of Grey's soul, literally, as the painting in which it has been instilled becomes tarnished and grows old and ugly. Meanwhile, Grey himself remains a perfect picture of youth.

We can see through this that the value of the times was not in morals and virtue, but in reputation and beauty, for although Grey from time to time hears rumours about himself, (most of which we are to believe are true) and several people who are associated with him come into disgrace and end up with a great dislike of the man, many will not believe a word against him, due to the beauty of his face.

That is only a small review of the novel, as there is so much in it to discuss. So, I'll leave you with that as a taster.

I recommend this novel, but only to those who wish to learn more about the society it was written in, and possibly about themselves, rather than those who enjoy a strong, fast paced plot.

Bobbikk