Themes and Symbolism in 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'

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What is the symbolic meaning of the portrait in the novel?
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The portrait represents Dorian's inner corruption and the consequences of living a life solely for pleasure.
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How does Wilde portray the theme of duality in 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'?
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Through the contrast between Dorian's youthful appearance and the aging portrait, highlighting the duality of appearance and reality.
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Explain the theme of aestheticism in 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'.
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Aestheticism is explored through characters’ pursuits of beauty and pleasure, often at the expense of morality.
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What role does the motif of the theater play in the novel?
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The theater symbolizes the artifice and deception present in Dorian’s life, paralleling his superficial nature.
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Discuss the theme of influence and corruption in 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'.
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Characters like Lord Henry influence Dorian's descent into immorality, illustrating how ideas can corrupt.
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What does Oscar Wilde suggest about morality through Dorian’s actions?
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Wilde suggests that ignoring moral consequences leads to a loss of humanity and eventual ruin.
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How does the concept of time contribute to the narrative of 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'?
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Time is manipulated through the portrait, emphasizing eternal youth's appeal and the inevitable decay of the soul.
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What is the significance of color imagery in the novel?
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Color imagery enhances themes, with vibrant colors symbolizing allure and rot implying corruption.
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How does nature imagery contrast with the urban setting in Dorian's life?
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Nature imagery often represents purity, contrasting with the decadence found in Dorian’s urban environment.
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Analyze the use of the theme of vanity in the novel.
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Dorian’s obsession with his appearance leads him to make choices that result in his moral and physical downfall.
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How does Wilde present the idea of social class in the novel?
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Social class is depicted as influential but ultimately superficial, impacting characters' access to pleasure and corruption.
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What role does secrecy play in 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'?
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Secrecy allows Dorian to hide his true nature and continue his lifestyle without social repercussions.
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What does the act of suicide in the novel symbolize?
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Sybil's suicide represents the destructive impact of Dorian's actions and broader societal neglect.
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How is the theme of eternal youth depicted in the novel?
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Eternal youth is shown through Dorian’s unchanged appearance, symbolizing society’s obsession with superficial beauty.
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What is the moral lesson of 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'?
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The moral lesson is that unchecked vanity and hedonism lead to personal destruction and moral decay.
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