About the Book
Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray is a perfect book group read. Its philosophical themes are guaranteed to have your group talking. Wilde nimbly threads beautiful prose together with a simple yet dazzling premise: what would happen if it was possible to remain young and beautiful forever?
Discussion Points:
- Who is to blame for Dorian’s downfall?
- What does the book tell us about the body and its relationship with beauty and sin?
- One review at the time said the novel ‘constantly hints at disgusting sins and abominable crimes.’ What is left unsaid in the book?
- Wilde is predominately known for his playwriting (this was his only novel). Do you think it was obvious from his writing style that he had a background in theatre? How would this novel play out on the stage?
- Basil Hallward is what I think I am: Lord Henry is what the world thinks of me: Dorian is what I would like to be—in other ages, perhaps.’ This what Wilde had to say about his lead characters. Do you think authors tend to write extensions of their own fantasies? Discuss how autobiography influences writing.
- Is this a timeless story? Are there any parallels between the book and our beauty culture today?
- The character of Dorian has several reincarnations in popular culture. Why do you think this figure endures?
- With its themes of double identities, narcissism and temptation indulged, did the book remind you of any other works?
- What is the significance of space and setting in this book?
Have you read The Picture of Dorian Gray? Let me know what your book group make of it…More Book Group Guides: Breakfast at Tiffany's by Truman Capote
0 comments:
Post a Comment