The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

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Description:

Set in Victorian England, the novel describes how a handsome young man, obsessed with his own beauty, figuratively sells his soul in order to stay young and handsome. Consequently, he descends into the depths of evil. The tale offers psychological horror, rather than blood and gore, and includes dozens of Wilde’s famous curmudgeonly epigrams. Themes include the price of self-obsession, the role of friendship, and the good and evil in humanity.

Activities:

Students research Victorian attitudes, examine doppelgängers through comic strips, and recognize autobiographical aspects of works of art. They also identify epigrams, analyze key themes and motifs, examine imagery, and role-play. The first lesson introduces the genre of horror stories, and a final lesson invites students to write their own horror story. Some assignments encourage students to make connections between The Picture of Dorian Gray and Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. 

Supplementary materials include essay topics, a reading quiz with answer key, and suggestions for additional writing assignments and art projects.

Ethical Values:

Compassion, Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Self-actualization