Oscar Wilde's "The Picture of Dorian Gray"

Oscar Wilde's "The Picture of Dorian Gray" explores themes of vanity, moral corruption, and the desire for eternal youth. The story follows Dorian Gray, a handsome young man who wishes to remain forever youthful. A portrait of him is painted, and he makes a Faustian deal: while he remains young, the portrait ages and reflects his immoral actions. As Dorian indulges in a hedonistic life, his outward appearance stays pristine, but the portrait shows his true, decaying soul. The novel questions the nature of beauty, morality, and the consequences of living solely for pleasure.