The Picture of Dorian Gray

Set against a backdrop of Victorian morality, this philosophical novel explores themes of aestheticism and moral decay through the character of Dorian Gray, whose portrait ages while he remains youthful. Initially published in a censored form, the story sparked outrage among critics for its perceived indecency, leading Wilde to defend his work vigorously. The novel reflects Wilde's views on art and ethics, showcasing his conflict with societal norms and the consequences of a life devoted to pleasure at the expense of morality.