Motifs in The Picture of Dorian Gray
1. The Picture of Dorian Gray
- Symbol of Conscience: The portrait acts as a mirror reflecting Dorian's aging and corrupted soul, while he remains youthful and unblemished.
- Physical Manifestation of Sin: It shows Dorian the consequences of his immoral actions, including his mistreatment of Sibyl Vane and the murder of Basil Hallward.
- Transformation and Reflection: Initially seen as Basil's masterpiece, the portrait evolves to reveal Dorian's moral degradation over time.
2. Homoerotic Male Relationships
- Cultural Aesthetic: Basil's adoration of Dorian's beauty and Lord Henry's desire to mold Dorian into an ideal reflect Wilde's appreciation of classical aesthetics.
- Philosophical Assertion: Wilde challenges societal norms by portraying homoerotic relationships as a part of refined culture, akin to historical figures like Plato and Shakespeare.
- Personal Justification: Reflecting Wilde's own life, these relationships are defended against societal intolerance as expressions of cultural and artistic appreciation.
3. The Color White
- Symbol of Innocence: Initially associated with Dorian's youthful purity and Lord Henry's fascination with his unspoiled beauty.
- Loss of Innocence: As Dorian descends into decadence, white symbolizes his rejection of innocence and the corruption of his soul.
- Transformation to Death: James Vane's white face symbolizes impending doom, contrasting with its earlier associations with purity.
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