Chapter Summaries of The Picture of Dorian Gray
Learn Further ▾ Background Plot Summary Chapters Summary Critical Analysis Themes Quotes Character Analysis Symbols Motifs Q&As Presentation Slides Preface & Chapter One After a series of epigrams highlighting Wilde’s aesthetic philosophy, the novel begins in the London home of Basil Hallward, an artist who shares his latest painting with the clever and scandalous Lord Henry. Basil describes how he met Dorian Gray and has since become obsessed with capturing his beauty. Against Basil’s wishes, Lord Henry meets Dorian when he arrives, intrigued by his youthful charm and beauty. Chapter Two While Dorian sits for Basil’s painting, Lord Henry discusses his personal philosophy, emphasizing the fleeting nature of youth and beauty. Lord Henry urges Dorian to indulge in life’s pleasures and not waste his youth. Dorian laments that his portrait will always retain its youthful appearance while he will inevitably age. As a gesture of friendship, Basil promises to gift Dorian the completed portrait. Chap…