Dorian Gray Critique

The two influences affecting Dorian Gray could not have been more divergent in origin or effectiveness. Basil Hallward started the fire of narcissism inside Dorian by glorifying him consistently for his handsome looks. His exaltation of Dorian was however, coming out of an authentic heart. He expressed true appreciation and inspiration from Dorian and protected his good looks. He relished and adored him. Lord Henry Wotton, on the contrary, used Dorian as a source of power. He looked at Dorian as unmolded clay. He could shape him to believe in whatever he desired. He drew him into the pursuit of "self-development" and instilled selfish values. The giving of the yellow book was the seemingly the ultimate symbol of power Wotton had over Dorian. However the possessive personality traits Wotton exhibits do not, to me, seem the most powerful in comparison to the honest and truly concerned Hallward. The connection between Wotton and Dorian was most definitely more obvious and exercised. However, illustrated in his suicide, the guilt consuming Dorian from a disapproving colleague, Basil Hallward, was too much to bear. His suicide ultimately suggests that Hallward's influence, while more subtle was more powerful in the end.

When Lord Henry Wotton gives Dorian the yellow book, it is seen as the final ounce of Dorian's body being swept away into Wotton's domination. Even Dorian considers the book to be "poisonous" and he was entranced by its writings about following whim. However, Dorian's view on the poison is positive and is hypnotized by its theme and the book subtly sways Dorian towards the pursuit of self-development and away from authentic living. The initial meeting of Wotton is the most crucial and life changing thing that occurred in the book. Without meeting him, Dorian would have never plunged not only in a downward spiral but also would have never plunged a knife into the neck of his beloved friend Basil's neck. His constant feelings of selfishness and "beauty over morals" mantra ultimately ended his relationship with the potential love of his life, his friend and himself. These influences reveal that Dorian is easily swayed. You must stand for something of you'll fall for anything.

During his youth, Dorian had a good, honest relationship with the artwork. The piece felt authentic and was a true depiction of his beauty and personality. His artist only drew what he saw at the time, and he considered it a masterpiece. When the picture started to change slowly, Dorian became selfish, impatient and demanding. He became embarrassed and secretive about his portrait. During his middle age, Dorian hated his picture because it illustrated his soul, which bothered him deep down. Right before his death, Dorian was so oblivious to the fact that the picture was forever changing, and wanted his youth and beauty back in a picture rather than good morals and judgment