PODG #1

     In the opening chapters of the novel The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde, the reader witnesses the strong influence Lord Henry has over Dorian Gray. Gray is a youthful character who is deeply revered by Basil, a painter. Lord Henry talks to Gray about Gray’s youth and explains “Now, wherever you go, you charm the world. Will it always be so?” (16). Lord Henry goes on to explain that Dorian Gray’s youth and beauty will ultimately fade away, causing Gray to be troubled by the thought of losing his good looks. Lord Henry is a very pretentious character, for he speaks as if his words hold absolute truth. Gray falls for these truths, as is shown in the strong negative reaction Gray has towards Basil’s painting of Gray. Dorian Gray is jealous that the painting will stay young forever as he wishes to do. In this moment, the reader sees Gray switch from a youthful character to a superficial character who is solely concerned with preserving his good looks. Through the change in Gray’s attitude, the strong influence Lord Henry has over Dorian Gray becomes evident.