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This Academic Edition contains the full text of The Picture of Dorian Gray, lightly edited for modern readers. It also includes an Editor's Introduction providing historical context on the book and insights into the author's life; a study guide with chapter summaries and discussion prompts; and a complete set of multiple-choice chapter quizzes. The book is designed for classroom use by English, literature, and writing students, as well as casual readers in search of a great story.
Dorian Gray is a remarkably handsome young man who views a painting of himself drawn by a friend and wishes that he could retain his youth and beauty, while the painting ages. His wish is granted, and he embarks on a life of debauchery and pleasure-seeking that leads to a predictably tragic end.
The Picture of Dorian Gray is Oscar Wilde's first and only novel, often regarded as his most famous work, and one of the most controversial books of the late nineteenth century. Its daring embrace of decadence and sexuality sparked an uproar in Victorian-era England, as did Wilde himself, who fell under a scandalous cloud of his own making that landed him in prison. Today, his novel is widely regarded as one of the great Gothic horror tales, a suspenseful and thought-provoking masterpiece that is as disturbing as it is intriguing.
About the author
Oscar Wilde (1854-1900) was an Irish playwright, poet, and novelist, known for his biting wit, defense of aesthetics, and defiance of social conventions. The author of celebrated comedies, including The Importance of Being Earnest, Lady Windermere's Fan, An Ideal Husband, and the iconic novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, at the height of his fame he was sentenced to two years' hard labor for "gross indecency" with men. He died penniless in Paris three years after his release from prison. He ranks among the most celebrated writers in English literature.
