Characters
Dorian Gray
Dorian is a wealthy and handsome young man, of whom Basil Hallward paints a portrait. Dorian represents many opposites in the book. Lord Henry Wotton convinces him he is physically perfect and Dorian becomes obsessed with preserving his good looks. Dorian further indulges in the hedonistic ideology of the elite throughout the book, and wishes the painting would age instead of him. He forgets what he used to consider important, like his lover Sibyl Vane and his friend Basil, which results in their deaths. His character worsens along with his reputation, and nobody can stop his downfall.
Basil Hallward
Basil is the mastermind behind the portrait of Dorian. He represents all the goodness in life, and cannot do wrong. He battles Lord Henry’s negative influence on Dorian to try and keep the latter sane, but eventually loses out. As Dorian’s condition dwindles thanks to Lord Henry, their once strong friendship deteriorates, leading to Dorian’s demise.
Lord Henry Wotton
Contrary to Basil, the aristocratic Lord Henry Wotton represents all that is bad in life. His influence on Dorian pushes him away from his previous way of life. He believes Dorian is a beautiful man, and he tells him so all the time. His constant worship of Dorian is what ultimately corrupts his view of the world.
Sibyl Vane
She is a gifted actress deeply in love with Dorian. At first, the feeling is mutual: Dorian loves her beauty, talent, and above all, her innocence. He sees himself in her and that is what keeps him in love. As Lord Henry’s influence grows and Dorian’s character changes, his feelings for Sibyl dissipate along with all the other good in his life. She breaks down knowing he doesn’t love her anymore, and commits suicide.
James Vane
Sibyl Vane’s very protective brother. He would do anything for his sister, and would hurt anyone that hurts her. When he learns that his sister committed suicide because of Dorian, he vows to kill him. However, he is killed before he can do so.
Alan Campbell
A chemist and an old friend of Dorian’s, their relationship falls to pieces when Dorian asks him to dissolve of the body of Basil Hallward, whom Dorian murdered.
