Dorian Gray Moral Responsibility Essay - 1350 Words

In The Picture of Dorian Gray, by Oscar Wilde, it tells of a mans gradual downfall from innocence to corruption. Even the name of the main character in Oscar Wildes tale, Dorian Gray, is very symbolic because ‘gray is the combination of black and white, of good and evil. In many ways, Dorian Gray is the epitome of mankind. Dorian Gray, an innocent and naà ¯ve man, becomes corrupted after having one conversation with Lord Henry Wotton. He shows how easily people can become swayed and changed merely by the words of others. Society plays such an enormous role in the lives of people. As said by Thomas Babington, The measure of a mans character is what he would do if he knew he never would be found out. How much of how we act is influenced†¦show more content†¦You will suffer horribly.... Ah! realize your youth while you have it. Dont squander the gold of your days, listening to the tedious, trying to improve the hopeless failure, or giving away your life to the ignorant, t he common, and the vulgar. These are the sickly aims, the false ideals, of our age. Live! Live the wonderful life that is in you! Let nothing be lost upon you. Be always searching for new sensations. Be afraid of nothing. . . . A new Hedonism-- that is what our century wants. Through him, Dorian faces the harsh realization that his physical attributes are ever fading. Upon this sudden insight, he dreads the physical burden of aging. He envies the perpetual beauty of Basils masterpiece. As Dorian says, If it were only the other way! If it were I who was to be always young, and the picture that was to grow old! For that - for that - I would give everything! Yes, there is nothing in the whole world I would not give! I would give my soul for that! The materialization of this wish and the metamorphosis it will ensue are to bring his demise. Dorians figure remains immaculate while the picture bears his abhorrent transformation. This is first confirmed following his amorous relationship wi th Sibyl Vane, an actress he meets at an infamous theatre. Like him, she is characterized by an entrancing beauty and a youthful naivety. Mesmerized by one another, they promptly exchange vows of fidelity. Dorian invites Henry and Basil toShow MoreRelatedThe Picture of Dorian Grey, by Oscar Wilde771 Words   |  4 Pagesaesthetic life? Is it better to seek a moral lifestyle following society’s moral standards? With ideal appearances and superficial beauty, a decorated life can seem easier and more luxurious than a moral life. Leading a moral life is not as appealing to most people; and is filled with hardships and trouble over â€Å"doing the right thing†. One quality cannot be held without losing the other, due to their conflicting natures. 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