The Picture of Dorian Grey

According to Oscar Wilde, the author of The Picture of Dorian Gray, "men and women at such moments lose the freedom of their will" (215). This statement is controversial because one can argue that men and women are held accountable for their loss of freedom based on their own wrongdoing. Dorian Gray the main character in the novel is portrayed in two ways; a beautiful and innocent young man but also an ugly sinner. Such a distinct transformation occurred within Dorian, but how did he begin to change? Lord Henry, another main character, is intentionally kept away from the vulnerable Dorian Gray, however he does not stay away for long. Lord Henry is an extremely influential character who is held responsible for Dorian's descent into evil based on his overconfidence and easily maneuverable personality.

Dorian's self assurance with his appearance influences his initial descent into evil. Basil Hallward's portrait reflects Dorian as a flawless and innocent young man. He thinks nothing can change within him because he is led to believe he is too beautiful. Lord Henry's eagerness to meet the infamous Dorian Gray makes Basil try and shelter him more. To keep Lord Henry from having the opportunity to mold Dorian into someone else, Basil writes, "Don't spoil him. Don't try to influence him. Your influence would be bad" (15). The quotation shows Basil's concern that Lord Henry's capabilities will negatively affect Dorian. Through the repetition of the words "don't" and his short commanding sentences, Basil reveals the importance of keeping Lord Henry away from Dorian. Wilde chooses to use the pronoun "him" instead of the noun "Dorian" because he already establishes Dorian as the person whom they are talking about. Basil's use of the word "influence" emphasizes that at some point in the novel this idea of "bad influence" will take part. Reveled through the syntax of Basil's sentences, his demanding yet scanty sentence structure delivers a strong message. Dorian cannot be protected from Lord Henry, who is accountable for his eventual sinful actions.

Dorian's young age makes him extremely vulnerable and gives Lord Henry the power to control his actions. Dorian cannot help but