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The Picture of Dorian Gray

Chapter 1: The Picture of Dorian Gray
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About This Book

The narrative follows a strikingly beautiful young man whose image is captured in a painting; under the influence of a seductive friend he embraces a life of aestheticism and self-indulgence. As he pursues pleasure and detaches from moral consequence, the portrait, hidden from view, bears the physical records of his corruption while he remains outwardly unchanged. The story traces his gradual degradation, violent acts, and attempts to conceal guilt, culminating in a final confrontation between self and image that leads to his destruction. The work also includes a pointed preface of epigrams defending art's autonomy and exploring beauty, influence, and responsibility.

The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Picture of Dorian Gray

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Title: The Picture of Dorian Gray

Author: Oscar Wilde

Release date: October 1, 1994 [eBook #174]
Most recently updated: September 17, 2025

Language: English

Credits: Judith Boss. HTML version by Al Haines.

*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE PICTURE OF DORIAN GRAY ***

The Picture of Dorian Gray

by Oscar Wilde


Contents

THE PREFACE
CHAPTER I.
CHAPTER II.
CHAPTER III.
CHAPTER IV.
CHAPTER V.
CHAPTER VI.
CHAPTER VII.
CHAPTER VIII.
CHAPTER IX.
CHAPTER X.
CHAPTER XI.
CHAPTER XII.
CHAPTER XIII.
CHAPTER XIV.
CHAPTER XV.
CHAPTER XVI.
CHAPTER XVII.
CHAPTER XVIII.
CHAPTER XIX.
CHAPTER XX.