The Picture of Dorian Gray, published in 1890, is the only novel written by the renowned Irish author Oscar Wilde. Known for its biting wit, philosophical depth, and exploration of aestheticism, the novel is a classic of Western literature and remains one of Wilde's most famous works.

Set in Victorian England, the novel revolves around Dorian Gray, a young man of extraordinary beauty and innocence. Seduced by the hedonistic philosophy of Lord Henry Wotton, Dorian wishes that a recently completed portrait of himself would bear the marks of age and sin, while he himself remains youthful and unblemished. The wish is mysteriously granted, setting Dorian on a path of moral and spiritual decline, as he indulges in a life of debauchery and vice.

As Dorian's behaviour becomes increasingly corrupt, the portrait, hidden away in his attic, transforms into a grotesque reflection of his inner degeneration. The novel delves into themes of vanity, the nature of beauty, and the corrupting influence of art and aestheticism. Wilde's writing is marked by sharp, epigrammatic dialogue, a hallmark of his style, and a deep exploration of the duality of human nature.

The Picture of Dorian Gray was initially met with outrage and accusations of immorality upon its publication. However, it has since been recognised as a masterpiece, offering a scathing critique of Victorian society's superficiality and moral hypocrisy. The novel's exploration of the destructive power of beauty and the transience of youth continues to resonate with modern readers, securing its place as a classic in the canon of English literature.