Literary Devices In The Picture Of Dorian Gray

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When someone consistently destroys the lives of those around them, which comes first: the realization of what one has done accompanied by self-loathing, or the eradication of one’s conscience? Dorian Gray makes it a habit to enter people’s lives, charm them, and then drop them as soon as he is no longer entertained by them. He leaves a path of destruction behind him, one full of whispered rumors that would be enough to tarnish the reputation of any well-loved person, no matter how pure they may seem. Readers that enjoy books that make their mind think would enjoy The Picture of Dorian Gray, but it is not for the faint of heart. Oscar Wilde has included plenty of dark, calculating characters, gore, and violence in his only novel. The Picture of Dorian Gray goes on a journey through the high …show more content…

He answered to every touch and thrill of the bow (Wilde 39).” In this quote, Lord Henry is comparing Dorian’s conversation skills to that of a violin. The use of a simile here is effective because it adds a sense of graceful music in the back of the readers mind, helping them compare the violin to a conversation held with Dorian. This quote could also be an example of imagery, as it prompts the reader to envision a violinist gracefully bending with their instrument as they play. The Picture of Dorian Gray is a very highly recommended read. It is an enthralling book that explores the life of a man that begins as a young, beautiful boy and ends up as a miserable, lonely, evil man. It is a book that teaches us lessons, a book that warns us about our own human nature. Oscar Wilde has included characters with major strengths and flaws, characters that can be related to, whether the reader wants to relate or not. It is a beautifully written book full of rich descriptions and tense action, one that is a great match for any open mind and strong