Nathaniel Burns-Sarno
Advanced Placement English/Mr. George
March 31, 2010
Character Analysis: Dorian Gray
Dorian Gray is a beautiful man who was innocent until being corrupted by Lord Henry and selling his soul to a painting of himself in exchange for eternal youth.
When Dorian is first introduced, he does not think much about his beauty. That is, until Lord Henry, a silver-tongued hedonist who becomes Dorian’s closest friend, reminds him that he beauty will not last, and he will eventually turn old and decrepit. After reflecting on Lord Henry’s words, Dorian becomes jealous of a painting of himself, as it will retain its beauty even as he ages. Dorian becomes so full of envy that he wishes that the painting would age instead of him: “It it were I who was to be always young, and the picture that was to grow old….I would give my soul for that!”(Wilde 28). Upon Dorian’s words, he stays forever young as the painting becomes a representation of his soul, appearing to be more and more abominable each time that Dorian sins. Dorian develops a fascination with Lord Henry and begins to live his life by Henry’s words. In pursuing his desire to be like Lord Henry, Dorian begins to influence others to ruin, causing all of his friends to distance themselves from him. Eventually, Dorian attempts to break free from his sin by the destroying the painting, only to kill himself in the process.
Dorian is like Pinocchio, and not only because they are both puppets. Dorian abandons the one person who actually cares for him in order to pursue that which he finds amusing, and in the process kills his conscience. He follows the influence of another simply because they are eloquent and ends up a tool for that person’s amusement.
A modern day Dorian Gray would be Joseph Brant, a copycat criminal who lived a lifestyle based off of a movie.
Nathaniel Burns-Sarno
Advanced Placement English/Mr. George
March 31, 2010
Character Analysis: Lord Henry
Lord Henry Wotton is a silver-tongued hedonist who delights in manipulating others through the use of eloquence and paradox.
Lord Henry has a desire for his voice to be heard by everyone, which causes him to share his opinion on every subject with anyone who will listen. Lord Henry’s style of speaking is oftentimes controversial. He speaks in such a manner to ensure that his listeners will reflect on his words and hopefully come to think the way that he does. He enjoys initiating others into his style of life, and thus uses his eloquence to control people. Such is the case with Dorian Gray, whom Henry vows to dominate: “He would seek to dominate him-had already, indeed, half done so. He would make that wonderful spirit his own”(Wilde 40). Lord Henry’s desire to control others stems from the fact that he does not practice what he preaches. Lord Henry has others live by his words rather than living by his words, himself. He enjoys a life of pleasure too much to risk his own happiness, so he risks the happiness of others. Lord Henry claims to be a hedonist, yet does not consider the harm that he causes Dorian. This shows that Lord Henry enjoy being a paradox just as much as he enjoys using them.
Lord Henry is like an automotive engineer who crafts a car for each of his beliefs. He is happy with the aesthetic appearance of each of his cars, but is unwilling to test them for fear that he might be harmed. To remedy the situation, he places the crash-test dummy that is Dorian into each of the cars and allows them to drive head-on into the wall.
A modern day Lord Henry would be Charles Manson, as they both used their influence to recruit other people into their lifestyle so that they could use those people to work for their twisted desires rather than taking direct action.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
Witticisms
Nathaniel Burns-Sarno
Advanced Placement English/Mr.George
March 30, 2009
Witticisms
1) Those who strive for peace must often go to war.
2) We spend our lives attempting to achieve heaven, unaware of the fact that such a paradise would remove the surprises and dangers of life that have become so enjoyable.
3) The sad thing about being the best at something is that you will forever be expected to retain your title. People's expectations create an unbearable amount of pressure and remove the joy that one's talents brought to their life.
4) There are many who call themselves highly intelligent, and are thus great fools.
5) There are two kinds of people in the world; the ones who dominate others and the ones who allow themselves to be dominated. The former is a bull, the latter a jackass.
6) Dreaming is a useless art if one is not willing to work for their desires.
7) It is easy to lose faith once you put it in someone else.
8) If you share your life with someone else, the portions they take will be nothing short of gluttonous.
9) The grass may always be greener on the other side, but I pity the man who is responsible for the upkeep of such a lawn.
10) People who ask "What is wrong with this picture" need only reflect on the fact that they are in it.
Advanced Placement English/Mr.George
March 30, 2009
Witticisms
1) Those who strive for peace must often go to war.
2) We spend our lives attempting to achieve heaven, unaware of the fact that such a paradise would remove the surprises and dangers of life that have become so enjoyable.
3) The sad thing about being the best at something is that you will forever be expected to retain your title. People's expectations create an unbearable amount of pressure and remove the joy that one's talents brought to their life.
4) There are many who call themselves highly intelligent, and are thus great fools.
5) There are two kinds of people in the world; the ones who dominate others and the ones who allow themselves to be dominated. The former is a bull, the latter a jackass.
6) Dreaming is a useless art if one is not willing to work for their desires.
7) It is easy to lose faith once you put it in someone else.
8) If you share your life with someone else, the portions they take will be nothing short of gluttonous.
9) The grass may always be greener on the other side, but I pity the man who is responsible for the upkeep of such a lawn.
10) People who ask "What is wrong with this picture" need only reflect on the fact that they are in it.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
PODG #11
"Not 'Forgive us ours' but 'Smite us for our iniquities' should be the prayer of a man to a most just God"(Wilde 226).
Such a God would be useful to Dorian, who desires requires reinforcement to better himself. Oscar Wilde most likely favors negative reinforcement, or else he would not have included this line. Dorian was able to avoid punishment because his portrait bared his sins. Therefor, he only received the pleasures that life had to offer. It is for that reason that negative reinforcement is the only option. I doubt that someone who received rewards and punishments according to their actions would believe negative reinforcement to be the only way to better oneself. The only reason Dorian needs to rely on negative reinforcement in the first place is because all chances of positive reinforcement were removed when he gave his soul to the portrait. When everything is pleasurable, then nothing truly is.
"There was a God who called upon men to tell their sins to earth as well as to heaven"(228).
This belief is interesting, as it differs from beliefs represented in other texts. In The Crucible and The Scarlet Letter, the main characters held the belief that sin only need be between man and God. Here we are introduced to the belief of Dorian's society. I wonder why they would believe that God wants them to bear their sins publicly. Who decided on this? Is it just the fact that it makes it more convenient for society to judge that everyone decided sins should be made visible to the world? Perhaps it was the sinners who decided on this while desiring penance. Whatever the case, at no point did Dorian confess his sin to either, making the whole statement a mute point.
Such a God would be useful to Dorian, who desires requires reinforcement to better himself. Oscar Wilde most likely favors negative reinforcement, or else he would not have included this line. Dorian was able to avoid punishment because his portrait bared his sins. Therefor, he only received the pleasures that life had to offer. It is for that reason that negative reinforcement is the only option. I doubt that someone who received rewards and punishments according to their actions would believe negative reinforcement to be the only way to better oneself. The only reason Dorian needs to rely on negative reinforcement in the first place is because all chances of positive reinforcement were removed when he gave his soul to the portrait. When everything is pleasurable, then nothing truly is.
"There was a God who called upon men to tell their sins to earth as well as to heaven"(228).
This belief is interesting, as it differs from beliefs represented in other texts. In The Crucible and The Scarlet Letter, the main characters held the belief that sin only need be between man and God. Here we are introduced to the belief of Dorian's society. I wonder why they would believe that God wants them to bear their sins publicly. Who decided on this? Is it just the fact that it makes it more convenient for society to judge that everyone decided sins should be made visible to the world? Perhaps it was the sinners who decided on this while desiring penance. Whatever the case, at no point did Dorian confess his sin to either, making the whole statement a mute point.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
PODG #10
"'Eighteen years,' laughed Dorian Gray, with a touch of triumph in his voice. 'Eighteen years! Set me under the lamp and look at my face!'"(Wilde 195-196).
Dorian has definitely gotten a lot smarter. The fact that he was able to come up with a plan so quickly makes it hard to believe that this is the same Dorian Gray. I would have never imagined Dorian to be capable of something so clever before. I do not even think that a highly intelligent person could have come up with a better plan to avoid death. I cannot tell whether age contributed to his wisdom or is it is his sins that have made him wise. Dorian shows that he will forever be able to use his beauty to his advantage, and is now even better at it. I find it a bit surprising that James Vane did not shoot him immediately. If he thought that this was the man who killed his sister, why did he hesitate? Was he simply enjoying the moments leading up to the kill. Whatever the reason, it paid off for Dorian.
"'The only horrible thing in the world is ennui, Dorian. That is the one sin for which their is no forgiveness'"(208).
This is interesting, as ennui(sloth) is a sin that Dorian commonly commits. Dorian is constantly switching between a state of depression and a state of nonchalantness, which both fall under the category of ennui. It is odd that Dorian can be seen as a tragic character despite the fact that he barely acknowledges his sin. At most he acknowledges how is sin would be looked at by others. I doubt he would care one bit if his sin was not considered taboo by the world. Dorian seems to like his moments of ennui. Although, that will probably change soon as Lord Henry has expressed his disapproval of it.
Dorian has definitely gotten a lot smarter. The fact that he was able to come up with a plan so quickly makes it hard to believe that this is the same Dorian Gray. I would have never imagined Dorian to be capable of something so clever before. I do not even think that a highly intelligent person could have come up with a better plan to avoid death. I cannot tell whether age contributed to his wisdom or is it is his sins that have made him wise. Dorian shows that he will forever be able to use his beauty to his advantage, and is now even better at it. I find it a bit surprising that James Vane did not shoot him immediately. If he thought that this was the man who killed his sister, why did he hesitate? Was he simply enjoying the moments leading up to the kill. Whatever the reason, it paid off for Dorian.
"'The only horrible thing in the world is ennui, Dorian. That is the one sin for which their is no forgiveness'"(208).
This is interesting, as ennui(sloth) is a sin that Dorian commonly commits. Dorian is constantly switching between a state of depression and a state of nonchalantness, which both fall under the category of ennui. It is odd that Dorian can be seen as a tragic character despite the fact that he barely acknowledges his sin. At most he acknowledges how is sin would be looked at by others. I doubt he would care one bit if his sin was not considered taboo by the world. Dorian seems to like his moments of ennui. Although, that will probably change soon as Lord Henry has expressed his disapproval of it.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
PODG #9
"'Women love us for a defects. If we have enough of them, they will forgive us everything, even our intellects'"(Wilde 183).
This seems to be true in most societies, although I believe it works both ways. Granted, it is more common for a woman to be attracted to a man's defects than for a man to be attracted to a woman's defects, by the latter is not unheard of. The loving of someone's defects can either stem from a desire to change the person or a desire to be closer to the darkness. People often find others who they want to change, so they develop a love of personal flaws, as they give them purpose. People also have an inclination to be bad. This is especially true with "pure" people, as the darkness is foreign to them and thus more interesting. This quote may foreshadow Dorian meeting a woman who will love his flaws. I would not be surprised, as Henry states this shortly after a conversation about Dorian's love life.
"'How inquisitive you are , Harry! You always want to know what one has been doing. I always want to forget what I have been doing'"(186).
Why is it that Dorian is being so formal with his words? He murdered Basil after showing him the portrait willingly, but feels no anger when Lord Henry is snooping around? Dorian has changed much throughout the novel, but his opinion of Lord Henry has stayed the same. Dorian desires to forget what he has done. While this may be because he believes his actions to have been shameful, I believe that Dorian only wants to forget what has happened because he does not find it to be important. He has showed no signs of remorse before, so it would make no sense if he felt guilty now. Perhaps Dorian's opinion of Lord Henry will change in time. If Dorian was so willing to murder the one he loved the most, I wonder what is in store for Lord Henry.
This seems to be true in most societies, although I believe it works both ways. Granted, it is more common for a woman to be attracted to a man's defects than for a man to be attracted to a woman's defects, by the latter is not unheard of. The loving of someone's defects can either stem from a desire to change the person or a desire to be closer to the darkness. People often find others who they want to change, so they develop a love of personal flaws, as they give them purpose. People also have an inclination to be bad. This is especially true with "pure" people, as the darkness is foreign to them and thus more interesting. This quote may foreshadow Dorian meeting a woman who will love his flaws. I would not be surprised, as Henry states this shortly after a conversation about Dorian's love life.
"'How inquisitive you are , Harry! You always want to know what one has been doing. I always want to forget what I have been doing'"(186).
Why is it that Dorian is being so formal with his words? He murdered Basil after showing him the portrait willingly, but feels no anger when Lord Henry is snooping around? Dorian has changed much throughout the novel, but his opinion of Lord Henry has stayed the same. Dorian desires to forget what he has done. While this may be because he believes his actions to have been shameful, I believe that Dorian only wants to forget what has happened because he does not find it to be important. He has showed no signs of remorse before, so it would make no sense if he felt guilty now. Perhaps Dorian's opinion of Lord Henry will change in time. If Dorian was so willing to murder the one he loved the most, I wonder what is in store for Lord Henry.
Monday, March 22, 2010
PODG #8
"'You are mad, Dorian.' 'Ah! I was waiting for you to call me Dorian'"(Wilde 172).
Dorian ignores the fact that he has just been insulted and focuses more on the fact that he has been recognized. This shows that Dorian is beginning to love his dark side more and more as time passes, as pride is a common trait in villains. Dorian desires to be charismatic, and is thus delighted when he hears his own name. He does not care whether his name is spoken in love or hatred, just as long as his name is spoken. Dorian also likes a sense of familiarity. Despite not caring about being loved, there is some deep part of him that wants adoration.
"As he read it his face became ghastly pale, and he fell back in his chair. A horrible sense of sickness came over him. He felt as if his heart was beating itself to death in some empty hollow"(174).
Whatever was written on that paper must have been really bad. Campbell, a man who behaved indifferently upon hearing that Dorian had committed murder is sent into a panic attack by mere words. The words that Dorian wrote are most likely a threat to reveal some dark secret that Campbell as revealed. Campbell has become a slave to Dorian, and is willing to do anything to keep Dorian from mailing that letter. Dorian seems to trust Campbell, as he does not seem the least bit worried that his crime will be made known when Campbell leaves. At the same time, Dorian was not stupid enough to allow Campbell to leave to pick up supplies. Sin seems to make Dorian smarter, but also more careless. I doubt that Dorian will trust Campbell for long. It's only a matter of time before Dorian decides to do away with him.
Dorian ignores the fact that he has just been insulted and focuses more on the fact that he has been recognized. This shows that Dorian is beginning to love his dark side more and more as time passes, as pride is a common trait in villains. Dorian desires to be charismatic, and is thus delighted when he hears his own name. He does not care whether his name is spoken in love or hatred, just as long as his name is spoken. Dorian also likes a sense of familiarity. Despite not caring about being loved, there is some deep part of him that wants adoration.
"As he read it his face became ghastly pale, and he fell back in his chair. A horrible sense of sickness came over him. He felt as if his heart was beating itself to death in some empty hollow"(174).
Whatever was written on that paper must have been really bad. Campbell, a man who behaved indifferently upon hearing that Dorian had committed murder is sent into a panic attack by mere words. The words that Dorian wrote are most likely a threat to reveal some dark secret that Campbell as revealed. Campbell has become a slave to Dorian, and is willing to do anything to keep Dorian from mailing that letter. Dorian seems to trust Campbell, as he does not seem the least bit worried that his crime will be made known when Campbell leaves. At the same time, Dorian was not stupid enough to allow Campbell to leave to pick up supplies. Sin seems to make Dorian smarter, but also more careless. I doubt that Dorian will trust Campbell for long. It's only a matter of time before Dorian decides to do away with him.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
PODG #7
"'Sin is a thing that writers itself across a man's face. It cannot be concealed"(Wilde153).
Basil speaks with much understanding of the situation without actually having knowledge of it. It is almost like he broke the fourth wall. Sin has indeed written itself across Dorian's face, in both the literal and metaphorical sense. Dorian is not completely sure of what he wants, as his desires conflict with each other. Dorian wants to conceal his sin, but at the same time, wants to make his sin known to the world. The latter desire is slowly outweighing the former. Despite having a concrete representation in the novel, Dorian's sin does not seem as though it can make itself known. It is not that Dorian's sin will reveal itself, but rather that Dorian will reveal his sin. Dorian no longer wastes his time with emotions he cannot experience. He is proud of the way things turned out. Dorian always loved himself, so it is no surprise that he loves what he has become.
"'Deny them, Dorian, deny them! Can't you see what I am going through? My God! don't tell me that you are bad and corrupt and shameful!'"(157).
Basil desires Dorian to be a good person, just as most people desire those who are beautiful to have a personality match their features. However, it does not seem that Basil wants Dorian to be moral simply because he is beautiful. Basil has shown that he cares too much about Dorian as a person to behave so superficially. Basil truly loves Dorian, and is desperate to continue loving him. Basil does not want his view of Dorian to be marred in any way. He was willing to believe that Dorian was pure without any evidence. His trust for Dorian ultimately lead to his downfall.
Basil speaks with much understanding of the situation without actually having knowledge of it. It is almost like he broke the fourth wall. Sin has indeed written itself across Dorian's face, in both the literal and metaphorical sense. Dorian is not completely sure of what he wants, as his desires conflict with each other. Dorian wants to conceal his sin, but at the same time, wants to make his sin known to the world. The latter desire is slowly outweighing the former. Despite having a concrete representation in the novel, Dorian's sin does not seem as though it can make itself known. It is not that Dorian's sin will reveal itself, but rather that Dorian will reveal his sin. Dorian no longer wastes his time with emotions he cannot experience. He is proud of the way things turned out. Dorian always loved himself, so it is no surprise that he loves what he has become.
"'Deny them, Dorian, deny them! Can't you see what I am going through? My God! don't tell me that you are bad and corrupt and shameful!'"(157).
Basil desires Dorian to be a good person, just as most people desire those who are beautiful to have a personality match their features. However, it does not seem that Basil wants Dorian to be moral simply because he is beautiful. Basil has shown that he cares too much about Dorian as a person to behave so superficially. Basil truly loves Dorian, and is desperate to continue loving him. Basil does not want his view of Dorian to be marred in any way. He was willing to believe that Dorian was pure without any evidence. His trust for Dorian ultimately lead to his downfall.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
PODG #6
"There are few of us who have not sometimes wakened before dawn, either after one of those dreamless nights that make us almost enamored of death, or one of those nights of horror and misshapen joy"(Wilde 134).
By using the word "us", Wilde not only incorporates the reader into his story, but also incorporates himself. By doing this, Wilde is putting himself into his art, which has been previously stated to be a taboo. This also shows how genuine the emotions of the characters truly are, as Wilde has obviously felt the same way that they do at some point. Wilde is perhaps speaking on behalf of the others who have experienced the kind of horrors he has, just as he spoke up for those who were gay during his trial. This is an interesting style of writing, although it seems a bit subjective. I wonder if Wilde would be as accurate in descriptions of emotions he had never experienced.
"How exquisite life had once been! How gorgeous in its pomp and decoration! Even to read of the luxury of the dead was wonderful"(140).
Dorian wants the good times back. Whether he truly feels remorse or is merely forcing himself to feel remorse because he thinks that he should is unclear. From what Dorian has revealed himself to be so far, I would wager the latter. Dorian is most likely just bored. The fun is taken out of most thing once your emotions cease to be. Dorian seems to be more interested in the luxurious things than the purpose for such luxury. He wants luxury for the sake of having it, much like he wants remorse for the sake of having it. It is interesting that he envies the dead. After all, Dorian has something in common with those who have died; his body and soul have been separated.
By using the word "us", Wilde not only incorporates the reader into his story, but also incorporates himself. By doing this, Wilde is putting himself into his art, which has been previously stated to be a taboo. This also shows how genuine the emotions of the characters truly are, as Wilde has obviously felt the same way that they do at some point. Wilde is perhaps speaking on behalf of the others who have experienced the kind of horrors he has, just as he spoke up for those who were gay during his trial. This is an interesting style of writing, although it seems a bit subjective. I wonder if Wilde would be as accurate in descriptions of emotions he had never experienced.
"How exquisite life had once been! How gorgeous in its pomp and decoration! Even to read of the luxury of the dead was wonderful"(140).
Dorian wants the good times back. Whether he truly feels remorse or is merely forcing himself to feel remorse because he thinks that he should is unclear. From what Dorian has revealed himself to be so far, I would wager the latter. Dorian is most likely just bored. The fun is taken out of most thing once your emotions cease to be. Dorian seems to be more interested in the luxurious things than the purpose for such luxury. He wants luxury for the sake of having it, much like he wants remorse for the sake of having it. It is interesting that he envies the dead. After all, Dorian has something in common with those who have died; his body and soul have been separated.
Monday, March 15, 2010
PODG #5
"'Of course, I am very found of Harry. But I know you are better than he is. You are not stronger-you are much too afraid of life-but you are better"'(Wilde 114).
Dorian is like a girl who has two boyfriends, one for compassion and one for sex. While Dorian and Harry have not had sex, Dorian speaks of his conversations with Harry as if they had committed sexual intercourse. Dorian does not want to lose either of these boyfriends, as they both have qualities that he desires. While Dorian's logic tells him to stay with Basil, his lust tells him to go to Harry. If Basil could have some confidence in himself and act dominating, he would be the perfect match for Dorian. Unfortunately, Dorian is too wrapped up in his lust for Harry.
"He felt ready to leap upon him and fling him to the ground if he dared lift the gorgeous hanging that concealed the secret of his life"(126).
Dorian is slipping needs to be careful. The fact that he thinks of harming a kind person who has just helped him hide his secret shows that he is willing to do anything to protect his image. If Dorian does not correct himself soon, it can only get worse from here. It is only a matter of time before he actually attacks someone, or even kills someone. I would not be surprised if Basil or Harry end up on the receiving end of a knife by the end of the book. Dorian has developed animalistic instincts. Nothing is beneath him, now.
Dorian is like a girl who has two boyfriends, one for compassion and one for sex. While Dorian and Harry have not had sex, Dorian speaks of his conversations with Harry as if they had committed sexual intercourse. Dorian does not want to lose either of these boyfriends, as they both have qualities that he desires. While Dorian's logic tells him to stay with Basil, his lust tells him to go to Harry. If Basil could have some confidence in himself and act dominating, he would be the perfect match for Dorian. Unfortunately, Dorian is too wrapped up in his lust for Harry.
"He felt ready to leap upon him and fling him to the ground if he dared lift the gorgeous hanging that concealed the secret of his life"(126).
Dorian is slipping needs to be careful. The fact that he thinks of harming a kind person who has just helped him hide his secret shows that he is willing to do anything to protect his image. If Dorian does not correct himself soon, it can only get worse from here. It is only a matter of time before he actually attacks someone, or even kills someone. I would not be surprised if Basil or Harry end up on the receiving end of a knife by the end of the book. Dorian has developed animalistic instincts. Nothing is beneath him, now.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
PODG #4
"There were no signs of any change when he looked into the actual painting, and yet there was no doubt that the whole expression had altered. It was not a mere fancy of his own. The thing was horribly apparent"(Wilde 94-95).
This is the first time that Dorian notices any change in the painting, but he is unable to identify the change exactly. Dorian reflects of the cruelty he showed Sibyl, demonstrating that he may have some belief that the portrait excepted the bargain of a soul for eternal youth. Dorian ignores the change soon after, just as mankind ignores their sins. Dorian also decides that there was never a change in the first place. This can be compared to a human being's inability to recognize their sin even when it is right in front of them.
"'So I have murdered Sybil Vane,' said Dorian Gray, half to himself-'murdered her as surely as if I had cut her little throat with a knife. Yet the roses are not less lovely for all that. The birds sing just as happily in my garden. And to-night I am to dine with you, and then go on to the Opera, and sup somewhere, I suppose, afterward'"(103).
Dorian's reaction to the news of Sibyl's death shows that his soul is slipping away. His morality has been replaced by an uncaring being of darkness. Although Dorian wishes to feel some emotion for his lost love, he is unable. Dorian's optimism is too bright to be mere displacement. He truly does not care about Sibyl's death one bit. He speaks in such a nonchalant manner that I am surprised that not even Lord Henry found his words odd. If this is what Dorian becomes after breaking up with someone, I can only imagine how he will change should he commit true atrocities.
This is the first time that Dorian notices any change in the painting, but he is unable to identify the change exactly. Dorian reflects of the cruelty he showed Sibyl, demonstrating that he may have some belief that the portrait excepted the bargain of a soul for eternal youth. Dorian ignores the change soon after, just as mankind ignores their sins. Dorian also decides that there was never a change in the first place. This can be compared to a human being's inability to recognize their sin even when it is right in front of them.
"'So I have murdered Sybil Vane,' said Dorian Gray, half to himself-'murdered her as surely as if I had cut her little throat with a knife. Yet the roses are not less lovely for all that. The birds sing just as happily in my garden. And to-night I am to dine with you, and then go on to the Opera, and sup somewhere, I suppose, afterward'"(103).
Dorian's reaction to the news of Sibyl's death shows that his soul is slipping away. His morality has been replaced by an uncaring being of darkness. Although Dorian wishes to feel some emotion for his lost love, he is unable. Dorian's optimism is too bright to be mere displacement. He truly does not care about Sibyl's death one bit. He speaks in such a nonchalant manner that I am surprised that not even Lord Henry found his words odd. If this is what Dorian becomes after breaking up with someone, I can only imagine how he will change should he commit true atrocities.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
PODG #3
"'He wants to enslave you.' 'I shudder at the thought of being free'"(Wilde 72).
Dorian and Sibyl are truly a good match for each other. Neither of them seem to mind the thought of being the puppet of someone that they barely know. It would be interesting if Dorian did develop a desire to enslave Sibyl. It would make sense, after all. It would be only natural that someone who was being controlled by another would want to know the feeling of being in charge of someone else. If Dorian does enslave Sibyl, then perhaps Lord Henry will use his influence over Dorian to also control Sibyl. Lord Henry would most likely love the idea of having two puppets. After all, the more subjects one has to experiment on, the more likely they are to achieve the desired result.
"'Discord is to be forced to be in harmony with others. One's own life-that is the important thing'"(83).
Lord Henry stays true to his character by saying something that his behavior contradicts. If he actually believed that following the plans of another is wrong, he would not be forcing Dorian to do so. This statement actually seems like it could jeopardize Lord Henry's plans. After all, since Dorian follows Lord Henry's words so enthusiastically, it is likely that he would begin to live his own life after hearing this. Of course, Lord Henry must have a plan to prevent that from happening. Otherwise, he would not have said anything in the first place.
Dorian and Sibyl are truly a good match for each other. Neither of them seem to mind the thought of being the puppet of someone that they barely know. It would be interesting if Dorian did develop a desire to enslave Sibyl. It would make sense, after all. It would be only natural that someone who was being controlled by another would want to know the feeling of being in charge of someone else. If Dorian does enslave Sibyl, then perhaps Lord Henry will use his influence over Dorian to also control Sibyl. Lord Henry would most likely love the idea of having two puppets. After all, the more subjects one has to experiment on, the more likely they are to achieve the desired result.
"'Discord is to be forced to be in harmony with others. One's own life-that is the important thing'"(83).
Lord Henry stays true to his character by saying something that his behavior contradicts. If he actually believed that following the plans of another is wrong, he would not be forcing Dorian to do so. This statement actually seems like it could jeopardize Lord Henry's plans. After all, since Dorian follows Lord Henry's words so enthusiastically, it is likely that he would begin to live his own life after hearing this. Of course, Lord Henry must have a plan to prevent that from happening. Otherwise, he would not have said anything in the first place.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
"I don't think I am likely to marry, Harry. I am too much in love. That is one of your aphorisms. I am putting it into practise, as I do everything you say"(Wilde 51).
I find it interesting that Dorian is aware of the fact that he is Lord Henry's slave, yet does not mind in the least. Is Lord Henry truly that inspiring, or is Dorian just a moron? Really, if it's so obvious to every character in the story that Lord Henry is manipulative, why cannot Dorian see it? Or rather, why does it not bother him? Maybe Dorian seeks to follow Lord Henry's example merely to be as successful as him. Although that is not likely. Such a motive seem too intelligent for Dorian.
"I don't want to see him alone. He says things that annoy me. He gives me good advice"(60).
Dorian truly is immature if something like receiving good advice annoys him. If Dorian knows the advice that Basil gives him to be good, why does he consider following it? Perhaps Dorian uses the term "good" ironically, as if he means what society considers to be good rather than what he himself considers to be good. In that case, does Dorian consider Lord Henry's advice to be "good"? The case might be that Dorian likes the advice that Basil is giving him, but forces himself to be annoyed with it because he finds Lord Henry's advice to be fascinating. It is a shame that Dorian allows himself to be influenced so easily. He reminds me of Pinnochio, who was also a puppet that strayed from the one who considered him to be a masterpiece and ignored good advice in order to pursue that which seemed amusing.
I find it interesting that Dorian is aware of the fact that he is Lord Henry's slave, yet does not mind in the least. Is Lord Henry truly that inspiring, or is Dorian just a moron? Really, if it's so obvious to every character in the story that Lord Henry is manipulative, why cannot Dorian see it? Or rather, why does it not bother him? Maybe Dorian seeks to follow Lord Henry's example merely to be as successful as him. Although that is not likely. Such a motive seem too intelligent for Dorian.
"I don't want to see him alone. He says things that annoy me. He gives me good advice"(60).
Dorian truly is immature if something like receiving good advice annoys him. If Dorian knows the advice that Basil gives him to be good, why does he consider following it? Perhaps Dorian uses the term "good" ironically, as if he means what society considers to be good rather than what he himself considers to be good. In that case, does Dorian consider Lord Henry's advice to be "good"? The case might be that Dorian likes the advice that Basil is giving him, but forces himself to be annoyed with it because he finds Lord Henry's advice to be fascinating. It is a shame that Dorian allows himself to be influenced so easily. He reminds me of Pinnochio, who was also a puppet that strayed from the one who considered him to be a masterpiece and ignored good advice in order to pursue that which seemed amusing.
Monday, March 8, 2010
PODG #2
"Philanthropic people lose all sense of humanity. It is their distinguishing characteristic"(Wilde 38).
Humanity has two definitions that seem to contradict each other. The first definition is "the quality or state of being humane". The second is "the quality or state of being human". If using the second definition, what Lord Henry said was completely true. Showing compassion goes against human nature. Human beings are hard-wired to look after themselves and do only that which is in their best interest. Philanthropists devote their lives to helping others out of the goodness of their hearts. So, in a way, philanthropists have forgotten what it is like to be truly human. Lord Henry's words could also be a critique of those who help others without being asked to. People like that are often hated for meddling in affairs that do not concern them. Despite the feelings of others, a philanthropist will continue to help, thus inciting more anger from those who do not approve of their involvement. This may cause the situation to become even worse, as feelings of resentment grow.
"One should sympathize with the color, the beauty, the joy of life. The less said about life's sores the better"(43).
With these words, Lord Henry demonstrates how truly nonchalant he is. Human beings normally experience sympathy when someone close to them is suffering. It fills a person with a feeling of unity with those who are in pain, thus making a person more compassionate towards those in need. Lord Henry ignores this part of sympathy and believes that sympathy should only be experienced by a person when someone close to them is jovial. While it is not detrimental to share in someone's good humor, one should never ignore people who actually need sympathy. Lord Henry's opinion of sympathy could only come from someone of good fortune.
Humanity has two definitions that seem to contradict each other. The first definition is "the quality or state of being humane". The second is "the quality or state of being human". If using the second definition, what Lord Henry said was completely true. Showing compassion goes against human nature. Human beings are hard-wired to look after themselves and do only that which is in their best interest. Philanthropists devote their lives to helping others out of the goodness of their hearts. So, in a way, philanthropists have forgotten what it is like to be truly human. Lord Henry's words could also be a critique of those who help others without being asked to. People like that are often hated for meddling in affairs that do not concern them. Despite the feelings of others, a philanthropist will continue to help, thus inciting more anger from those who do not approve of their involvement. This may cause the situation to become even worse, as feelings of resentment grow.
"One should sympathize with the color, the beauty, the joy of life. The less said about life's sores the better"(43).
With these words, Lord Henry demonstrates how truly nonchalant he is. Human beings normally experience sympathy when someone close to them is suffering. It fills a person with a feeling of unity with those who are in pain, thus making a person more compassionate towards those in need. Lord Henry ignores this part of sympathy and believes that sympathy should only be experienced by a person when someone close to them is jovial. While it is not detrimental to share in someone's good humor, one should never ignore people who actually need sympathy. Lord Henry's opinion of sympathy could only come from someone of good fortune.
Friday, March 5, 2010
PODG #1
"When I like people immensely I never tell their names to any one. It is like surrendering a part of them"(Wilde 6).
This is very true. A person's name is their most valuable possession, as it serves as part of their identity. Some even believe that knowing a person's name gives you a certain power of them. One should never throw around another person's name as they would their own. The only person who has rights to a person's name is the owner of the name. Many consider it rude to mention anything about a person while that person is not present, so I can understand why Basil would not want to reveal Dorian's name. The fact that Basil is an artist makes his attachment to Dorian's identity that much stronger, as artists enjoy a world of secrecy. Basil knows how he would feel if someone were to tell a stranger of him, and thus believes it tactful to not mention Dorian's name without the consent of Dorian himself.
This is very true. A person's name is their most valuable possession, as it serves as part of their identity. Some even believe that knowing a person's name gives you a certain power of them. One should never throw around another person's name as they would their own. The only person who has rights to a person's name is the owner of the name. Many consider it rude to mention anything about a person while that person is not present, so I can understand why Basil would not want to reveal Dorian's name. The fact that Basil is an artist makes his attachment to Dorian's identity that much stronger, as artists enjoy a world of secrecy. Basil knows how he would feel if someone were to tell a stranger of him, and thus believes it tactful to not mention Dorian's name without the consent of Dorian himself.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Preface Response
The Preface mostly speaks about art in a manner that only a true artist could. Oscar Wilde opinion about artists and critics seems to be from the point of view of an artist whose work has been critiqued, as he is greatly opposed to those who offer criticisms. In a way, he critiques the critics, which makes him just as bad as them. Those statements aside, Wilde states his beliefs very beautifully, making his words seem that much more valuable. I can only guess that a great part of The Picture of Dorian Gray will deal with great art and ignorant people's interpretation of it. Wilde portrays artists as supernatural beings rather than humans. He excuses them of any fault held by mankind on the basis that they create art. Clearly, Wilde has his own opinion of what true art is. I cannot tell whether he is the artist or the critic in life.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
